An important way for the community to expand its holdings was to
negotiate an exchange of lands. William of Denby exchanged the
culture of Haukhemschif for Byland’s culture lying by the
bounds of Flockton.(20) This could
be a practical and sensible arrangement, and might work to the
advantage of both parties, helping them
to develop their interests in specific areas. In the late twelfth
century Byland agreed to give nine acres of land in Denby to
John, son of Harding, in return for four of his acres that lay
beside their own house in Langefurlang, two acres at Castlegate
and one at Stockenwell. The monks were clearly happy to exchange
nine acres of land for seven that lay in prime locations, but
stipulated that should these fall short of seven acres, John
should supplement his grant with land in Pilatescroft, that lay
adjacent to Byland’s house. If, on the other hand, John’s
lands exceeded seven acres, the surplus would be used to benefit
his soul. (21)
