Livery companies began as the first guilds of craftsman, smiths and traders. In their earliest incarnation they were simply informal groups of similarly skilled workman who met to discuss and agree on certain points pertaining to their craft. These agreements covered everything from pricing and wages to product standards and trading area. Their mutual cooperation helped assure that each could earn his living without worrying about price cutting or sub-standard goods making their way into circulation, tarnishing the reputation of the group as a whole.
Liveries and other likeminded groups were prevalent all over Europe in pre-Norman days. In the City of London the meetings and get-togethers were natural extensions of these craftsmen living and working in the same close quarters. The reminders of these neighborhoods still exist in current street names like Ironmonger Lane and Bread Street. As these guilds became more formalized, they sought and were granted Royal Charter. The Weavers' Company was granted the first Charter by Henry II in 1155.
These guilds continued to flourish, benefiting members and citizens alike by tightly controlling member trading practices. Those whose work was found to be sub-standard or caught selling goods underweight risked fines or being expelled and forbidden to work in their craft. While this was an exacting practice, the guilds also provided care for members unable to work and provided small pensions and burial services. Guild halls were built for official business, ceremonies and dispute resolution.
The term "livery" was first used in reference to the items a household or official residence needed to supply to employees to live, such as clothing, food, drink and the like. The term eventually became more associated with clothing and distinctive dress. This is how it became linked with guilds; guild members were required to wear unique insignias and robes for ceremonies and functions and came to be known as "livery companies." These distinct robes and clothing insignias are still used today.
At present time there are 108 livery companies. This is a dynamic group and The Worshipful Company of Security Professionals was the most recently chartered livery in 2008. There were 48 livery companies in existence in 1515 and over time some guilds had joined together, whilst other had split. This lead to a number of disputes regarding prominence and importance, so much so that The Lord Mayor settled the matter by establishing an order of preference based on wealth. "The Great Twelve" as the first twelve places are known is also dynamic; a dispute between the Merchant Taylors (tailors) and Skinners (fur traders) resulted in their positions at numbers six and seven to be exchanged annually (some say this is the origin of the phrases "at sixes and sevens").
One of the most beautiful aspects of the City's livery companies is their guild halls. There are 38 in the City of London, dating from the 17th century to the most recent Haberdashers Hall, completed in 2002. Many livery companies offer tours to the public and many also feature exhibitions and events. The City of London Festival takes place in June/July and utilizes some of the halls for events and organizes tours.
Livery Halls make impressive venues for weddings, parties and any type of event. Life's Kitchen specializes in Livery Hall hire and bespoke catering in London.
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