Worshipful Company of Drapers, city of London guild
The Worshipful Company of Drapers is a historic livery company in London originally formed to regulate the wool and cloth trade. Its hall, located on Throgmorton Street near London Wall, features four main rooms including the Livery Hall that seats around 270 guests and displays elaborate decorations, paintings of past members, and a collection of historical artwork and silver dating back to the 1500s.
The company emerged around 1180 as an informal gathering of wool traders and was formally established in 1361 with royal approval granted in 1364. Its current hall has occupied the Throgmorton Street site since 1543 after acquiring the former residence of Thomas Cromwell, surviving fires and World War II bombing before being rebuilt and restored to its historic character.
Members traditionally honored the Virgin Mary as their patron saint and worshipped at St. Michael's Cornhill, a practice that shaped their community identity. Today, they maintain these spiritual traditions through ceremonies and gatherings that connect them to centuries of shared purpose in London's trade and civic life.
The hall on Throgmorton Street is a short walk from the city center and can be explored through guided tours, particularly during special heritage open days. Historical collections including documents dating to the 13th century, artworks, and silver pieces are available for viewing by appointment for researchers and interested visitors.
The company became the first livery company ever to receive a coat of arms in 1438, setting the precedent for all others that followed. Its hall has been used for filming movies including The King's Speech, blending its historical significance with modern cinema production.
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