Livery Companies

There are presently 108 Ancient and Modern Livery Companies in the City of London, 43 of whom have their own Halls. 

Their history goes back to Medieval days when Guilds were formed from religious fraternities, which is why so many of them have pledges to God in their mottoes. 

The groups of traders eventually formed Guilds to protect the interests of their members and the standards of the trade.

Guilds became Livery Companies with the granting of Royal Charters and the wearing of their Livery; like tabbards worn by Knights showing their colours and depicting their trades. 

Members began their careers by becoming a Freeman, which entitled them to trade in the City.  They then progressed to the Livery, which also entitled them to cast their votes for the election of the Sheriffs and the Lord Mayor of London, a privilege which extends to this day.

The Weavers' Company received the first Royal Charter in 1155 from King Henry II  and there was a lot of controversy over the years as to who should be senior to whom.  It was finally resolved in 1515 when the Livery Companies agreed to an order of precedence.  The most influential Companies of the time became known as The Great Twelve.  Most of the ancient Livery Companies now concentrate on looking after charities, schools and housing for the elderly.

In the 20th Century 30 new Livery Companies began a revival as active Companies with their members participating in the trade, such as Fire Fighters, Hackney Carriage Drivers, Tax Advisers and the latest being the Security Professionals, making a current total of 108 Companies.

The Great Twelve Livery Companies

Mercers;   Grocers;   Drapers;  Fishmongers;   Goldsmiths;  Skinners;  Merchant Taylors;  Haberdashers; Salters;  Ironmongers;  Vintners;  Clothworkers.

There is a mnemonic for remembering the order of the Great Twelve Livery Companies:

My  Gracious  Darling  For  Goodness  Sake Make Haste  Soon  I'm  Very  Cold