The Complete Peerage: A Comprehensive Bibliographic History
The Complete Peerage stands as one of the most exhaustive records of the British nobility, documenting the history of the House of Lords and its members from the earliest eras. Spanning multiple editions and decades of scholarship, this monumental work provides a detailed account of extant, extinct, and dormant peerages across England, Scotland, Ireland, Great Britain, and the United Kingdom.
The work is divided into two primary editions, each reflecting the scholarly standards and editorial focus of its time. While the first edition established the foundation, the second edition expanded significantly in scope, adding detailed appendices and a broader range of contributors.
Key Facts
- First Edition: Published between 1887 and 1898, consisting of 8 volumes edited by George Cokayne.
- Second Edition: A massive expansion published between 1910 and 1959, comprising 14 volumes.
- Scope: Covers the peerage of England, Scotland, Ireland, Great Britain, and the United Kingdom.
- Editorial Evolution: Transitioned from a single editor (Cokayne) to a collaborative team including Hon. Vicary Gibbs, H. A. Doubleday, and others.
- Content: Includes not only genealogical records but also extensive appendices on legal precedents, military service, and political history.
The First Edition (1887–1898)
The first edition was edited entirely by George Cokayne. It was organized alphabetically across eight volumes, providing the initial framework for the study of the peerage.
| Volume | Alphabetical Range | Publication Date | Notable Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | A to Bo | 1887 | Irish Peerage before the 16th Century |
| II | Bra to C | 1889 | - |
| III | D to F | 1890 | - |
| IV | G to K | 1892 | Papal dispensations referring to Scotland |
| V | L to M | 1893 | - |
| VI | N to R | 1895 | - |
| VII | S to T | 1896 | - |
| VIII | U to Z | 1898 | General index and corrigenda |
The Second Edition (1910–1998)
The second edition represents a significant leap in detail and breadth. Volumes 1 through 5 retained the title Complete peerage of England, Scotland, Ireland, Great Britain and the United Kingdom, extant, extinct or dormant, while Volumes 6 through 13 were titled The complete peerage; or, A history of the House of lords and all its members from the earliest times.
Editorial Leadership
The second edition saw a shift in leadership. The Hon. Vicary Gibbs led the early volumes, often assisted by H. A. Doubleday. Later volumes were managed by Doubleday, Lord Howard de Walden, and eventually G. H. White. The final addenda and corrigenda volume (1998) was edited by Peter W. Hammond.
Thematic Appendices
Unlike the first edition, the second edition is renowned for its rich appendices. These sections delve into specialized historical and legal topics, such as:
- Legal and Political: Discussions on the doctrine of abeyance, the Protectorate House of Lords (Cromwell's "Other House"), and the politics of peers.
- Military History: Lists of peers who served in the South African War (1899–1902) and the Great War (1914–1918).
- Social History: Notes on the "Loyalists Bloody Roll," the Order of the Garter, and the amusements of men of fashion in 1782.
- Genealogy and Heraldry: Analysis of the Bayeux Tapestry, the use of the particle "de" in titles, and the ancestry of specific noble families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who edited the first edition of The Complete Peerage?
The first edition, published between 1887 and 1898, was edited entirely by George Cokayne.
How does the second edition differ from the first?
The second edition is much more expansive, featuring a larger number of volumes (14 compared to 8), a collaborative team of editors, and extensive thematic appendices covering legal, military, and social history.
What is the alphabetical range of the second edition's main volumes?
The main volumes of the second edition progress from "Ab-Adam to Basing" in Volume I to "Tracton to Zouche" in Volume XII (Part 2).
Does the work cover peerages outside of England?
Yes, it comprehensively covers the peerages of Scotland, Ireland, Great Britain, and the United Kingdom.
When was the final supplementary material published?
The final volume, containing addenda and corrigenda, was published in 1998 and edited by Peter W. Hammond.