Horsweard

Warden or protector of the king's horses. One such is mentioned in King Aethelberht's laws of the early 7c. He was responsible for all aspects of the horses' treatment and management: tending and organising the wild horses, as well as the stud. The legal definition of a herd of horses was 50 mares. The role changed little but the title did over the years. During John's reign he was Chief Keeper; in Henry III's reign he was King's Farrier; later still he was Master of the Horse. [< horse + OldEngl. weard = warden]