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Rules and ordinances of the Cutlers and Bellfounders Gild, circa 1555
The Cutlers and Bellfounders Gild was one of five in existence at this date – the others were the Tanners
and Leathersellers, the Mercers and Drapers, the Vintners, and the Clothiers and Clothworkers. The Cutlers
and Bellfounders Gild actually admitted members of 17 other trades, including carpenters and joiners.
This rule book is open to show the ‘perticuler orders’ relating to smiths and barbers.
Document reference: [R/HMC LVI (part)]
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Freemen’s admissions register, 1603-1700
In his History of Reading, Man writes that there were around 300 freemen in the Gild companies during the
16th century. This book lists the freemen admitted to the 47 different trades carried on in the town during the
17th century. After the reform of local government in 1974, the position of freeman became an honorary one,
given to acknowledge contributions made to the town. There are currently 7 freemen.
Document reference: [R/HMC XLVII]
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