1722 Royal Warrant to Harvest Deer in the Royal Forest of Whittlewood, England

The earliest hunting license, or warrant, is believed to date to the time of William the Conquerer, who established some of the first hunting laws around 1087. Although this document is not that old, licenses, permits, or warrants preceding the 19th century are rare. This Royal Warrant was issued in 1722 for the harvest of one fat doe, by the order of his Majesty, King George the 1st, and the Ranger or Keeper of Whittlewood Forrest (as spelled on the warrant). Whittlewood was one of the Royal Forests and an important medieval hunting forest, with scattered stone buildings and old-growth habitat, at that time. The forest is located in Northamptonshire, England. The document is not without some minor wear and blems but is generally in very good condtion. The item is exactly as pictured. Any questions, please ask.