King’s Wardrobe

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King’s Wardrobe

The King’s Wardrobe, built in the 14th century between St. Andrew’s Hill and Addle Hill near Blackfriars Precinct, was originally a repository for royal clothing, but later housed offices of the royal household and became a key seat of government (Sugden 557). Stow explains its significance:
In this houſe of late yeares, is lodged Sir Iohn Forteſcue, knight, Maiſter of the Wardrobe, Chancellor and vnder Treaſu
rer of the Exchequer, and one of her Maieſties Priuy Councel. The ſecret letters & writings touching the eſtate of the realme, were wont to be introlled in the kings Wardrobe, and not in the Chauncery, as appeareth by the Records.
(Stow 1598 299)