Hear a rare insider view of the City of London's Livery Companies - their history, traditions, quirks and modern role in the Square Mile.

Murray Craig was the Clerk of the Chamberlain's Court between 1997 and 2022, only the 37th Clerk since 1294. This unique role involved working very closely with the Livery Companies of the City of London and advising on protocol, procedures and administration of these Medieval bodies. Many of these Livery Companies controlled trades and crafts in the Medieval period and now support charity work, education, and fellowship.

In this talk, Murray will discuss the quirky features and curious oddities associated with these organisations, in particular the Great Twelve (i.e. the most senior Livery Companies).

About the speaker:

Murray Craig holds a BA in History from Queen Mary, University of London, and is a member of the City of London Guide Lecturers Association. Murray is an experienced lecturer and accomplished after‑dinner speaker, and also a member of six Livery Companies.

What to expect:

The talk will last approximately 50-60 minutes followed by Q&A.

IMPORTANT: This talk will be taking place in-person only at The London Archives.

About The London Archives:

The London Archives is a free public archive focusing on the history of London, from 1067 to the present day. We preserve and share millions of historical manuscripts, maps, photographs, books which tell the story of the city.

You can find us in central London in Clerkenwell, close to Farringdon Station - details on our Getting to The London Archives webpage (https://www.thelondonarchives.org/visit-us/getting-here).

Description supplied by the event organiser.