An official responsible for supervising agricultural work and managing aspects of the lord’s estate.
A reeve was an official responsible for supervising agricultural work and managing aspects of the lord’s estate.
The reeve was closely involved with the practical running of the demesne, organising agricultural tasks, overseeing labour and accounting for produce.
In many medieval manors the reeve was chosen from among the tenants and acted as an important link between the lord and the tenant community.
The role differed from that of the steward, who generally had wider legal and administrative responsibilities.
See also:
Bailiff
Demesne
Steward
Tenant
