History of

The Beadles of London

History of The Beadles of London

900 years of service to the Livery Companies of London.

MR Johnny Cash (RN) MBE Appointed New Chairman the City of London Beadles Guild January 2024
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.

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
29th January AGM Installation Meeting 18.00 Innholders’ Hall
23rd February CHAIRMAN’S DINNER 18.15 Innholders’ Hall
4th March GPC 18.00 Innholders’ Hall
22nd April Social Meeting 18.00 A City Tavern tbc
24th May BEADLES ONLY LUNCH 12.00 Innholders’ Hall
10th June GPC 18.00 Innholders’ Hall
8th July General Meeting 18.00 Innholders’ Hall
20th September BEADLES & CLERKS LUNCH 12.00 Innholders’ Hall
7th October GPC 17.00 Innholders’ Hall
…Followed by Election Meeting 18.00 Innholders’ Hall
9th November Lord Mayors Procession 11.15 Meet at Aldermanbury alongside Guildhall
6th December CHRISTMAS LUNCH 12.30 Cutlers’ Hall

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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