Freemen of the City of London

The Freemen of the City of London are individuals who have been granted the Freedom of the City, a traditional honor bestowed by the City of London Corporation. The Freedom of the City is a recognition of an individual’s significant contribution to London or their exceptional service to the community.

History

The tradition of granting the Freedom of the City dates back to the 13th century when it was a means of controlling trade within the city. In those days, only Freemen were allowed to carry out trade or craft within the city limits. Over time, the focus shifted from trade to a more ceremonial role, recognizing individuals for their achievements and contributions to society.

Eligibility and Admission

There are several ways to become a Freeman of the City of London:

• Servitude: Individuals who have completed an apprenticeship in one of the City’s Livery Companies are eligible for the Freedom by Servitude.
• Patrimony: If an individual’s father was a Freeman of the City at the time of their birth, they are entitled to the Freedom by Patrimony.
• Redemption: The most common method today, Freedom by Redemption, is granted to individuals nominated by a Livery Company or Ward, often in recognition of their significant contributions to the city or their chosen profession.
• Honorary Freedom: The highest honor, Honorary Freedom, is awarded to individuals who have rendered exceptional service to the city or the nation. This is a rare distinction, with only around 110 Honorary Freedoms awarded since 1888.

Rights and Privileges

Historically, Freemen enjoyed several privileges, such as the right to vote in parliamentary elections, exemption from tolls and duties, and the right to herd sheep over London Bridge. While most of these privileges have lost their practical significance, Freemen still retain some symbolic rights:

• The right to participate in the annual Silent Ceremony, where the new Lord Mayor of London is sworn in.
• The right to drive sheep and cattle over London Bridge, a tradition that is re-enacted periodically to raise funds for charity.
• The right to carry a sword in public, although this is rarely exercised today.
• The right to be hanged with a silken rope, should the occasion arise.

Notable Freemen

Some notable individuals who have been granted the Freedom of the City of London include:

• Queen Elizabeth II
• Nelson Mandela
• Florence Nightingale
• Winston Churchill
• Stephen Hawking
• J.K. Rowling
• Bill Gates
• Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India

Livery Companies

The City of London’s Livery Companies play a significant role in the granting of the Freedom. These ancient trade associations, many of which date back to the Middle Ages, originally controlled the practice of their respective crafts within the city. Today, they are primarily charitable and educational organizations that support their respective industries and professions. There are currently 110 Livery Companies in the City of London, each with its own unique history and traditions.

The Freedom of the City of London is a time-honored tradition that recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the city or their chosen field. While the practical privileges associated with being a Freeman have diminished over time, the honor remains a prestigious recognition of an individual’s achievements and service to society. The tradition continues to be an important part of the City of London’s rich history and cultural heritage.