JOIN US
We are a friendly, sociable and forward-thinking Livery Company, with a fascinating heritage and a modern outlook. Unlike some Livery Companies, membership is not restricted to people working in a particular trade. We welcome anyone who shares an interest in the history and heritage of our Company, the craft of tobacco pipe making, the wider tobacco industry and its associated trades, or the wider Livery movement in general.
We are proud of our reputation for being a relaxed and welcoming Company where friendships are formed across generations and backgrounds. Some members have deep connections with our historic trade; others have discovered us through an interest in the City, its history and traditions, or simply because they enjoy good company and interesting people.
Being a member is about much more than attending a few dinners each year. We want our members to become part of the life of the Company, to meet people, make friends and contribute their own ideas, skills and enthusiasm. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved, whether through our committees and working groups, charitable fundraising, our heritage activities, or simply by coming along to our many social events.
Whether you are looking to become more involved in the City, explore the traditions of the Livery, support charitable causes, discover more about our remarkable heritage, or simply meet interesting people and enjoy some memorable occasions, there is a place for you here with us.
Members of our Company are admitted as Freemen. They then are encouraged to become Liverymen after taking the Freedom of the City of London.
Membership of a Livery Company is considered to be a lifetime commitment. We also ask that all our members make an annual donation to our Benevolent Fund. The Clerk will advise the recommended level of donation.
ADMISSION TO THE FREEDOM OF OUR COMPANY
Joining our Company can be done in two different ways, the most common being Redemption.
Redemption: Candidates aged over 21 must be proposed and seconded by Liverymen of the Company of at least two years’ standing. This rule may be waived if a candidate does not know anyone in the Company and an application can be made direct to the Clerk.
Each candidate is interviewed by the Master and a Warden. The Court is then asked to formally approve each application by ballot before the Freedom of the Company is granted.
Each candidate comes before the Court to receive their Freedom at a formal ceremony and to pay the membership "fine" (fee). No further fee is payable in the first year, but "quarterage" (the annual membership fee) is payable annually, at a rate fixed by the Court each year. Discounted rates apply for members under 35 years old.
Patrimony: Sons and daughters of a Freeman of the Company, who were born after their parent's admission, are permitted to join the Company when they reach the age of 21 years old.
In some Companies, admission may be granted once an applicant has served an apprenticeship, according to the custom of the City of London. However, our Company does not use this method of admission.
ADMISSION TO THE LIVERY
Having been admitted to the Freedom of the Company, candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to become a Freeman of the City of London. Once this is granted, candidates are then encouraged to take up the Livery of the Company in a ‘gowning ceremony’ before the Court. At this stage a one-off "fine" is payable.
Only Liverymen can play the fullest role in the life of the Company and the City of London, chair Committees and become Court Assistants, Wardens and Masters. Only Liverymen can vote at Common Hall for the Sheriffs and Lord Mayor. Taking up the Livery is considered to be an important step for any Freeman who wishes to be fully involved in the life of our Company.
Application forms and further details of fees payable can be obtained from the Clerk who will be delighted to talk you through the process.