Based on a manuscript compiled by or for Sir Richard Knightley (c.1533-1615), the bulk of this book illustrates how the militia operated from 1586 to the early part of the 17th century and therefore includes the preparations for Northamptonshire's role in defending England from the Spanish Armada.
An extensive introduction unfolds how the militia system developed during the Middle Ages and points to the large numbers of men and the range of other resources that the county was expected to provide in times of trouble. The period covered by the introduction extends to the 19th century.
Papers assembled in the original manuscript range from instructions received from central government to accounts of taxation, expenditure, horses, weapons and other materials involved. Officers and the more wealthy taxpayers are the individuals best represented, but many common soldiers are also named in the surviving musters. The book therefore offers much to family and local historians interested in all levels of the social scale.
Few of us would have the stamina to read all 400 pages from cover to cover but with the help of the three comprehensive indexes to persons (nearly 7,000 unique individuals), places and subjects, that is not necessary.