History of

The Beadles of London

History of The Beadles of London

900 years of service to the Livery Companies of London

Chairman elect for 2023 Mr Keith
King Charles the III

Who are the Beadles of the City of London?

Beadle, sometimes spelled "bedel" is derived from the Latin "bidellus" or "bedellus", rooted in words for "herald." He was originally an official of the Roman Temple. The word Beadle has also been used to describe early policemen and church or parish wardens.

The Livery Companies, as they evolved, needed a point of contact between the Master, Wardens, and Court of Assistants and the Livery in general. They therefore appointed (and paid for) a Beadle, who took care of the Company's meeting place ('Hall'), called the Court members and/or Livery together on behalf of the Master, and enforced any disciplinary measures decided by the Court.

The modern day Beadle is appointed as a officer of the company and his responsibilities vary from ceremonial duties, facilities management also being a Toastmaster at company banquets.

Adele Thorpe, Chairman, The City of London Beadles Guild

Who are the Beadles of the City of London?

Contributing to our Website

2023 Event Dates

Date Event Time Location
9th January GPC Installation 17.00 Saddlers Library
24th January General Installation Meeting 18.00 Saddlers Livery Room
3rd April GPC 17.00 Saddlers Library
24th April General Meeting 18.00 Saddlers Livery Room
12th May</td> CHAIRMAN’S DINNER 18.00 Saddlers Hall
17th July General Meeting 18.00 Saddlers Livery Room
25th September GPC 17.00 Saddlers Library
9th October Election Meeting 18.00 Saddlers Livery Room
10th November BEADLES & CLERKS LUNCH 12.00 Saddlers Hall
11th November Lord Mayors Show Procession    

If you have any documents or images which would help tell the story of the Livery Company Beadle please get in touch.

All of the Livery Companies have detailed records of past Masters, Wardens and Clerks but the role of the Beadles has received less attention. We would like to include names and dates of holders of the posts through the ages (see Rolls of Honour).

Any information would be appreciated as we try to construct a lasting record of the unsung, and usually under-paid stalwarts of the Livery Companies.

We are also pleased to include details of the work of The Ward Beadles.

If you would like to contribute material or a link please contact:

David R Hasler

Beadle to the Cutlers’ Company

Email:

Tel: 020 7248 1866

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