This printed volume records the names and details of each Master of the Bench at the Inn from those known from the earliest fifteenth century records to the year 1937. Biographical information recorded includes places and dates of birth and death, details of admission and Call at the Inn, legal and political positions held, honours and titles granted, publications and details of coats of arms.
The introduction provides a useful short history of the Inn and its Benchers, looking particularly at the offices of Treasurer and Reader, various practices and traditions, and providing background on Call to the Bar, chambers and other relevant subjects.
The Bench Book also includes a number of lists of those holding key positions in the Inn, including Treasurer, Reader, Under-Treasurer, Keepers of the Library, as well as Masters, Organists and Readers of the Temple Church.
The volume is indexed by name and subject, and contains a number of plates, largely engravings after various paintings around the Inn.