A window into early modern law and liberty: New to Fogler Library Special Collections

Fogler Library’s Special Collections is excited to share a new acquisition: a rare 17th-century English law book that links UMaine to a pivotal moment in legal history. Originally donated to the UMaine School of Law by an alumnus, the volume was recently transferred to Fogler, where it will support interdisciplinary research.

Printed in 1683, the book is titled: The Reports of the Right Worshipful Edw. Lord Littleton — and records judicial decisions from 1626–1631, early in the reign of King Charles I. These law reports and digests — essential legal tools before the digital age — offer insight into how law functioned during one of the most politically fraught eras in British history.

Its author, Edward Littleton (1589–1645), held influential roles including Keeper of the Great Seal of England. Though he initially defended civil liberties in Parliament — most notably helping draft the Petition of Right (1628), a forerunner to the English Bill of Rights and U.S. Constitution — he later accepted a royal post, alienating his allies.

The volume captures the tension between civil rights and royal authority during a period that culminated in the English Civil War and the temporary collapse of the monarchy. For today’s students of law, history, and political science, it offers a compelling lens on how legal precedent both shapes and is shaped by power.

This book is now housed at Fogler Library’s Special Collections and available for research. We thank the UMaine School of Law for helping preserve this important artifact of legal heritage.

Interested in viewing the volume? Contact Fogler Special Collections to learn more or schedule a visit.