The Worshipful Company of Bakers
The Worshipful Company of Bakers is one of the oldest Livery Companies in London, dating back to the 12th century. As the name suggests, this guild is dedicated to the art and science of baking. Over the centuries, the Bakers have played a significant role in the development of London’s culinary and social culture.
Origins and History
The roots of the Worshipful Company of Bakers can be traced back to the City of London’s charter granted by King Henry II in 1155. Since bread was central to the medieval diet, it was considered essential to regulate the prices, weights, and quality of the bread sold in the City. Therefore, a guild of bakers was formed to enforce these regulations.
The Baker's Company received its Royal Charter in 1438, which confirmed its right to regulate the craft of baking and to hold its meetings at the Bakers' Hall on Harp Lane in the City of London. The original hall was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666 but was rebuilt in 1673 and still stands today.
Throughout the centuries, the Bakers’ Company has been an influential force in London's culinary and social scenes. During the 18th century, the Bakers organized many extravagant dinners, known as ‘feasts,’ which were attended by the most influential people of the time, including Members of Parliament, the Lord Mayor of London, and members of other livery companies.
In the early 19th century, the Bakers’ Company established a school for the children of bakers, which was in use until 1922. Today, the Company continues to support the baking industry in many ways, including scholarships and training schemes.
The Company Today
The Worshipful Company of Bakers is a thriving Livery Company, with over 500 members. The Company is led by a Master, who is elected annually and supported by a Court of Assistants and other Officers.
Although the Company’s primary focus remains on the art and science of baking, its members come from a variety of professions, including finance, law, and academia. The Company’s activities include promoting the craft of baking, supporting charity work, and organizing social events.
The Bakers’ Company remains committed to its charitable work and supports a range of causes. It has established a number of charitable trusts, including the Bakers’ Benevolent Society, which provides financial assistance to bakers and their families facing hardship. The Company also supports educational initiatives, including scholarships and training schemes for bakers.
The Bakers’ Company also holds a prominent role in the City of London and has strong links to many other Livery Companies. The Company participates in many City events, such as the Lord Mayor’s Show, and hosts a range of social events throughout the year.
The Craft of Baking
The Worshipful Company of Bakers has a long history of promoting and supporting the craft of baking. Throughout the centuries, the Company has played a significant role in shaping the baking industry in London, influencing everything from the price and quality of bread to baking techniques and equipment.
Today, the Company continues to support the baking industry through its charitable work and by offering training and scholarships to aspiring bakers. The Company also organizes baking competitions and other events, which challenge bakers to push the boundaries of their craft.
One of the ways the Bakers’ Company supports the baking industry is through its famous annual Christmas cake competition. The competition takes place in November, and bakers from all over the country are invited to submit their finest Christmas cakes for judging. The competition is a true celebration of the art and skill of baking, and the winning cakes are displayed at the Bakers’ Hall for all to see.
The Company is also committed to promoting the use of quality ingredients and supporting local producers. The Bakers’ Company’s Food and Wine Group organizes regular tastings and visits to local producers, with a focus on artisanal products and ingredients.
Conclusion
The Worshipful Company of Bakers is one of London's oldest and most respected Livery Companies, with a long history of promoting and supporting the craft of baking. The Company's commitment to charity work, education, and supporting the baking industry remains as strong today as it was in the 12th century.
Through its events, charitable work, and support for bakers of all levels, the Bakers’ Company plays a significant role in the City of London. The Company’s members come from a range of backgrounds, united by their love for baking and their commitment to supporting their industry and the wider community.
The Company’s legacy is evident in the many bakeries and patisseries that line the streets of London, serving up some of the finest baked goods in the world. For centuries, the Bakers’ Company has been a central part of London’s culinary and social culture, and it remains an important and respected institution today.