Our Company is one of the 111 Livery Companies of the City of London, and with the first written mention of our craft guild in 1376 we are one of the oldest. We originally began as a group of tradesmen, making and selling candles made from tallow (the rendered fat of animals such as cows and sheep), eventually being granted full Livery status in 1462. As such we were key in monitoring London’s manufacture and trade not only in tallow candles, but also other domestic goods such as oils, sauces and soaps.

Today we maintain links with tallow’s modern equivalents and descendants, from tallow rendering or candle making businesses to associations like the Federation of Oils, Seeds and Fats Associations (FOSFA International) and the National Edible Oil Distributors’ Association (NEODA). Also, on the basis of our shared interests in heat and light, we have built a relationship with bp.

As well as supporting charitable organisations, much of our focus today is on the education of young people with a particular emphasis on science, technology, engineering and maths. In addition to our various bursaries, donations, awards and scholarships, we have three flagship schools which receive some of our largest donations and non-financial support programmes.

Society and fellowship has fuelled the success and longevity of our Company with members now numbering over 320. A mix of Liverymen and Freemen, our members come from a wide range of backgrounds, encompassing varying professions, experience and expertise.

Membership & Governance

Membership & Governance

The Company has 180 Liverymen and over 140 Freemen with a Court that governs the Company, under the leadership of the Master. Freemen, Liverymen and Members of the Court serve on the Company’s Committees which report to the Court. The Clerk leads the permanent support staff.

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 Affiliations & Links

Affiliations & Links

The majority of the Company’s links and affiliations have historical roots, and together with the Company’s membership and associations with the City of London, they form a powerful network.

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 History

History

The Tallow Chandlers Company was formed in about 1300 to regulate oils, ointments, lubricants and fat-based preservatives and to manage candle making using tallow (animal fats). Over the next 150 years we expanded in membership and influence, until King Edward IV granted us a coat of arms in 1456, and full livery status in 1462.

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 Archives

Archives

The archive includes records of members, Company business, Company properties and estates, financial records, Clerk’s correspondence and supporting documents, and records of the Average Market Committee, in addition to the charters, paintings and other artefacts displayed around the Hall.

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