From a remote period several incorporated trading companies existed here,
{107} who exacted fines from what were termed “foreigners;” that is,
individuals who had not served an apprenticeship to a freeman, or who
were not the eldest sons of freemen, if they commenced business in the
“craft or calling” of any of these guilds; the chief of which were the
Drapers and Mercers: the former possessed a considerable property, and
were incorporated by Edward the Fourth, as were the latter in 1480 by the
same king. The Barber Chirurgeons were chartered by Edward the First in
1304, and incorporated by James II. in 1686, with the Wax and Tallow
Chandlers. The charter of the com-brethren of Painters, Booksellers, &c.
is dated May 8th, 19th of Edward IV. The Builders, &c. 19th Q.
Elizabeth, 1577. The composition of the Tailors, 1627, and recites a
more ancient grant. The Smiths, Armourers, &c. have a composition, 19th
James I. 1621. That of the Shoemakers is the most recent, being dated
1739. The Butchers have lost their charter, money, and records; and
several other “crafts” have only left a name behind.
These fraternities comprehend in their incorporation many more trades
than have been specified. Their utility in the infancy of commerce, as
so many brotherhoods for the protection of different trading interests,
is evident; but having survived the original purpose of institution,
their advantage had been long questioned, and the powers which they
possessed became defunct under the recent Municipal Bill. It is not,
however, too much to suppose but they might, as SOCIAL BODIES, still
effect many good purposes, not the least of which would be the
aggregation of brotherly feeling and good fellowship.