ABSTRACT
The dispersed location of the Bowes operations ranging from the borders of Yorkshire to the Tyne meant that the proprietor was obliged to engage in management at a distance, no matter how conscientious he was in visiting his properties. George Bowes, who headed his family's operations for around 40 years, made regular journeys between Gibside and London to avoid absenting himself for long periods, and kept in regular contact with his stewards by post when he was away. Most of the historical accounting statements of the three families were used for tracking rights and obligations, which is consistent with the findings of previous studies relating to other estates. The bilateral accounts were supported by a range of other measures to protect the proprietor's interests, such as physical stock checks, and stock reconciliations that were intended to safeguard the equipment and materials from theft.
