History of the Livery
London's livery companies originated in the 12th century, when in 1155 the weavers of the Square Mile were granted the first guild charter. By 1515, 48 liveries held royal charters, and the movement has since evolved from trade regulation into charity, education and civic partnership with the City of London.
Growth and Decline
Livery companies originated in the 12th century, arising as craftsmen who shared trades formed merchant associations to regulate their trade and ensure high standards of quality. The number of guilds grew rapidly until the 14th century, and by 1515 an order of precedence had been established for the 48 existing liveries, all by then holding royal charters. The term livery came from the distinctive non-military uniform worn by liverymen and freemen to distinguish themselves from other companies.
From the 17th century onwards, the livery companies struggled to remain competitive, confined as they were to the Square Mile and unable to enjoy the cheaper economics of moving away from London. The industrial revolution, with its chemical manufacturing, iron production, steam power and mechanised factories, only intensified this pressure.
Revival Through Education
A rigorous attitude to training and education had always been part of the liveries' ethos, and this focus was essential to their revival. From the 1870s onwards, the livery companies shifted their attention to education, exemplified by their role in establishing the City and Guilds Institute in 1878. Various research funds and prizes followed, rewarding innovative members, alongside a growing focus on care and protection for elderly members.
Relationship with the City
The livery companies and the City of London have enjoyed a long, close working partnership, sharing objectives and promoting the Square Mile. The Court of the City of London has historically been the arbiter of new livery requests, and remains so today. Until the Reform Act of 1832, livery companies exclusively held the vote for the Members of Parliament for the City of London, and every Lord Mayor of the City of London must still belong to one of the 110 existing liveries. The partnership is fostered today through the Livery Committee.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the first livery company charter appear?+
In 1155, when the weavers of the Square Mile were granted the charter to form a guild.
How did the Reform Act of 1832 affect the livery companies?+
It ended the livery companies' exclusive hold on the vote for Members of Parliament for the City of London.
What role did livery companies play in education?+
From the 1870s they shifted focus towards education, helping establish the City and Guilds Institute in 1878.
