Monica Draycott Freeman of the City
Having been admitted to the Founders Company as a Freeman last year, I decided it was time to take the next exciting step in my livery journey by applying for the Freedom of the City of London. I completed the application form and submitted photos of my Founders Freeman certificate, along with the usual personal and professional details. Interestingly, the form also asked for information about my parents—something I later learned is passed to the National Archives for future family history research, not for background checks!
About a week later, I was delighted to hear that the Court of Aldermen had approved my application, and I could now choose a date for my Freedom ceremony. I received plenty of information in advance and did a bit of Googling to confirm the dress code—smart, but not overly formal seemed to be the consensus.
On the day, my name was on the list at the Guildhall entrance, so my husband and fellow liveryman, Christopher Draycott, and I were able to head straight in. We were welcomed by the Beadle to the Chamberlain’s Court and shown to a waiting room filled with fascinating artefacts from various livery companies - including a charming sheep from the Worshipful Company of Woolmen, which naturally called for a photo! The Beadle explained the ceremony and helped me practice the more tongue-twisting parts of the Declaration of a Freeman. I also reviewed and signed off on the personal and family details to be sent to the National Archives.
Soon, it was time. The Beadle led us into the Court Room, where the Clerk of the Court greeted us. After brief introductions, I read the Declaration of a Freeman aloud and signed the Freeman’s Declaration Book with a traditional fountain pen. The Clerk congratulated me and presented me with my Copy of Freedom. We had time for photos, and the Clerk kindly gave us a tour of the room, sharing stories behind some of the artefacts. I was especially intrigued by the tale of Alice Claver, a 15th-century silkwoman who joined the Founders Company after being widowed—despite her late husband having been a Mercer. Apparently, she found the Founders more welcoming and even left several items to the Company in her will.
After our brief history lesson, it was time to say farewell to the Guildhall and head off for a celebratory lunch. It was a truly memorable day, and I felt warmly welcomed throughout. I hope this account gives fellow Founders Freemen a helpful insight into both the application process and the ceremony itself. If you haven’t yet taken this step, I wholeheartedly encourage you to go for it!