Swansea University has launched a two-year research project to examine the feudal history of Jersey, supported by £216,000 in funding. The study, titled "The Fiefs and Seigneurs of Jersey: History and Significance," will be led by Professor Daniel Power from the Department of History, Heritage and Classics.
The research aims to trace the development of Jersey’s landholding system from the 11th century, when the island was part of the Duchy of Normandy, through to the English Civil War in the mid-17th century. Despite changes over time—including the abolition of seigneurial financial rights in 1966—many traditions such as manor properties and ceremonial roles for seigneurs persist on the island.
Professor Power stated: “The history of law and landholding in Jersey and the other Channel Islands provides a fascinating link between the medieval and early modern past, and today.
“The islands were culturally Norman yet politically separated from mainland Normandy from 1204 onwards, allowing their institutions and legal culture to evolve in a distinctive way. The archival material is rich, and the potential for discovery is immense.”
Findings from this research will be presented at a public seminar in Jersey in 2027, with a full publication planned afterwards.
The project is part of a larger £250,000 initiative funded by private donations and supported by organizations including Jersey Heritage, Société Jersiaise, and the Government of Jersey. It also contributes to Millenium 2027—the European Year of the Normans—which commemorates 1,000 years since William the Conqueror’s birth.
John de Veulle, former Chair of Jersey Heritage, commented: “Our thanks go to everyone who is contributing to and supporting this major research project into an important aspect of Jersey’s history.
“The Island’s feudal system dates back hundreds of years and still has an impact on Jersey today. It has not yet been thoroughly studied, and it will be fascinating to see what the new research uncovers.”
A postdoctoral researcher will join Professor Power’s team between April 2026 and March 2028. Applications are currently open until November 25, 2025.
According to Swansea University officials, this project highlights their commitment to historical scholarship and international collaboration while offering insights into how medieval systems continue to influence contemporary society.