Squire

Squire In more chivalrous medieval times a squire was a man-at-arms to a knight. That is an apprentice knight.

In an English village in 19th century, 20th century, and possibly 21st century the squire is/was a man who through example leads a village rather like the head-boy at a public school. The squire more often than not lives/lived at the village manor house, and owned an estate in the village. If the squire was patron of the parish church (and he often was) he would choose the vicar.

The position of squire is today totally dependant on good manners and breeding (wealth while helpful is not a requisite of the job). The position cannot be bought, but is given subconsciously by the community. Today it is anachronistic, but in some communities works for the good of all.

The term 'Esquire' comes from squire, and can be used in place of 'Mr.' when addressing an English landowner, e.g Frederick Bloggs Esq. rather than Mr. F Bloggs. To use the term when referring to oneself is an affectation.

In the 21st century the whole idea of squire and esquire is now rather confused and the term and position will probably not survive the century.