18th century Passports

For my next book, The Baron’s Daughter, I have been researching passports. Why, you ask? Excellent question.

During the 18^th century, British passports were mainly for diplomats, officials or professionals such as merchants. Tourists were not common and only the affluent traveler were able to obtain a passport. The document cost about 6 pounds, 7 shillings and 6 pence in 1778. It was not a cheap expense!

Granting travel documents to British citizens was tasked by the Privy Council of England from 1540 to the late 18th century. In 1794, issuing British passports became the job of the Office of the Secretary of State. Most foreigners entering Britain had to obtain a passport. From the beginning of the war with France in 1793, it became necessary for these foreigners to acquire a new passport when changing the place or the usual residence. This new passport was issued by the mayor of a town. Foreign merchants were excluded. They had full liberties to pass and repass within the country.

Examples of 18th century passports:

We, John Earl Russel, Viscount Amberley, a Peer of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, a Member of Her Britannic Majesty’s Most Honourable Privy Council, Mer majesty’s Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, requests and requires in the name of Her Majesty all those whom it may concern to allow Mrs Elizabeth Gaskell (British subject) accompanied by four daughters travelling un the Continent with a maid servant, to pass freely without let or hindrance and to afford then every assistance and protection of which them may stand in need.

*For more information- http://regency-explorer.net/passport/