The Unique History of London Livery Companies

Livery companies are a wonderful part of London history that still continues to this day. Liveries are later manifestations of the early guild system, where craftsman and traders would organize and agree on certain work and product standards. In pre-Norman times groups and agreements were informal, but as commerce grew and the need to standardize became important, more formal institutions were created.

The benefits of these institutions were for both the craftsman and the citizens. Cooperation and standards meant that low-priced, sub-standard products were not sold to unsuspecting customers. This assures that a quality standard was maintained and that the reputation of the guild stayed intact. It also meant that each person could earn a living wage without fear of being undercut on price.

The first guilds and organizations grew from the very living conditions of the City of London. Craftsman and traders tended to live in close proximity and certain neighborhoods became associated with certain goods and services. There are still reminders of this as one can obviously imagine what goods were sold on Bread Street or Ironmonger Lane, both of which still exist in the City today.

It was in 1155 that the weavers were granted a royal charter by Henry II, formally recognized as The Weavers' Company. This recognition allowed the livery to legally impose rules and standards. If work in a certain industry was found to be wanting, the craftsman could be compelled to bring it up to standard or risk fines, expulsion or being barred from working and selling goods. The livery companies also provided some of the first social welfare by providing for the families of sick workers and providing pensions and taking care of burial fees.

Livery ceremonies are replete with history and pageantry. The leaders and officers wear distinctive dress and regalia and this is thought to be the origin of the term Livery Company. These robes and dress clothes are still part of the ceremonies that go on today. And although many associate livery companies with a bygone age, they are still alive and well in this century. Currently there are 108 livery companies. The latest to gain livery charter is The Worshipful Company of Security Professionals which was recognized in 2008.

The year 1515 is an historic one for livery firms as this is the date The Lord Mayor drew up the list of the Great Twelve. This list was developed to settle disputes and claims of the most prominent liveries. The Lord Mayor created his list based on wealth, however to this day a dispute still reigns. The Merchant Tailor's and Skinners still exchange annually their places at spot six and seven on the list of the Great Twelve.

One of the more visible aspects of London livery companies are their guild halls. In the City there are 38 halls dating from the 17th century with many having survived the Great Fire and the bombings of World War II. The most modern, the Haberdashers Hall was completed in 2002, while the Apothecaries' Hall (located at Black friars) is the oldest. While these are private buildings, there are opportunities to see the interiors. The City of London festival often holds events in many of the halls and some do hold occasion exhibits.