Worshipful Company of Curriers - History

History

The Curriers' Company dates from 1272 when the Mistery of Curriers formed a trade association. In the 14th century the Curriers constituted themselves into a guild and religious fraternity linked with the Carmelite Friars near Fleet Street. In 1415 they obtained their ordinances by an act of Common Council: these gave them full autonomy over all curriers in and within two miles of the City. Before 1580 the Guild of Curriers was recognised as a Livery Company in the City of London and the Company became armigerous in 1583, although, not until 1606 did King James I grant the Curriers' Company a Royal Charter of Incorporation.

During the ensuing four centuries the Company built no less than six Curriers' Halls in London. After the sale of its sixth and last hall in 1921 it moved in with its longstanding trade and livery partner, the Worshipful Company of Cordwainers, with whom it still enjoys a close relationship. Along with many other Livery Halls, Cordwainers' Hall in Cannon Street was itself destroyed by enemy action in 1941 and since then the Curriers have been without their own hall. However, from 1942 onwards the Company has been housed at Tallow Chandlers' Hall, where it holds its Court meetings. Historically several streets in the City's environs were named after the currying trade, eg. Curriers' Alley, Curriers' Lane, etc.