So You Think You're a Livery Lord? A Totally Serious (Except Not Really) Guide to London's Livery Companies
Ever heard of a Livery Company and thought it sounded like something out of a fantasy novel? Well, buckle up, my friend, because these aren't just colorful names for magical guilds (although some of the history is pretty darn fantastical). Livery Companies are a very real part of London's history and fabric, and they're still going strong today!
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| How Many Livery Companies Are There In London |
But First, How Many Are There?
This is where things get interesting. Forget counting sheep – we're diving into the world of historic trade associations. The answer? A cool 111 Livery Companies currently grace the City of London. That's right, over a hundred groups with names that range from the straightforward (The Worshipful Company of Bakers) to the slightly more mysterious (The Worshipful Company of Fletchers – turns out they make arrows!).
From Fishmongers to Fancy Dress: What Do They Do?
Okay, so they're not handing out magic wands (although some of those ceremonial robes might make you think twice). But Livery Companies play a surprisingly important role in modern London. Here's a taste:
- Supporting their trades: While some trades have evolved a bit (we're guessing blacksmiths aren't in super high demand these days), Livery Companies still champion their industries and professions.
- Charitable endeavours: These guys are big on giving back. They donate millions to charity every year, supporting everything from education to historic preservation.
- Keeping tradition alive: From grand ceremonies to maintaining stunning Livery Halls (think fancy guild headquarters), these companies are all about keeping London's heritage spick and span.
So, Can You Just Join Any Old Livery Company?
Hold your horses, there, squire! Membership isn't exactly like signing up for your local gym. Each Livery Company has its own criteria, but generally, you'll need to be involved in the relevant trade or profession. Think of it as a super exclusive club for passionate professionals (with a healthy dose of history thrown in).
Tip: Reread slowly for better memory.
Bonus Fun Fact: Back in the day, some Livery Companies even had a say in electing the Lord Mayor of London! Talk about power players.
Livery Lodge FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered (Probably)
Alright, so you're curious about these Livery Companies. Let's answer a few burning questions:
How to become a member of a Livery Company?
QuickTip: Repetition reinforces learning.
This depends entirely on the Company itself. Your best bet is to check out their website or reach out directly.
How to tell the difference between a Livery Company and a regular company?
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Look for the word "Livery" and the formal title "The Worshipful Company of" followed by their trade or profession. Regular companies just...well, have regular names.
Tip: Read at your natural pace.
How to know which Livery Company to join?
If you're passionate about a particular trade or profession, that's a good starting point!
How to visit a Livery Hall?
Tip: Break it down — section by section.
Many Livery Halls are open to the public for tours or events. Check out the individual Company website for details.
How to score a magic wand and pointy hat?
We can't help you there. But hey, maybe if you join the right Livery Company, they've got some hidden secrets up their sleeves (or robes).
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