Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire facts for kids
| Act of Parliament | |
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| Citation | 21 Jas. 1. c. 31 |
|---|---|
| Dates | |
| Royal assent | 29 May 1624 |
| Commencement | 12 February 1624 |
The Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire is an old group of metalworkers in Sheffield, England. It's like a special club or organization for people who make things from metal. This company was officially started in 1624 by a special law from the Parliament. The person in charge of the company is called the Master Cutler. Their motto is a French phrase, Pour Y Parvenir a Bonne Foi, which means "To Succeed through Honest Endeavour".
Contents
What the Company of Cutlers Does
When the company was first created, it had power over many metalworkers. This included anyone making knives, blades, scissors, or other items from iron and steel. These people had to live in or near the area of Hallamshire.
Expanding Their Role
Over time, the company's responsibilities grew. In 1860, they also started to include steelmakers. In the same year, they gained an important right. They could say "no" to any new company in the United Kingdom that wanted to use the word "Sheffield" in its name. This helped protect the good reputation of Sheffield products. The company also gives special marks to approved cutlers. This helps promote the high quality of Sheffield steelware.
The Cutlers' Hall
The Company of Cutlers has been based at Cutlers' Hall since 1638. This building is located across from the cathedral on Church Street. The current hall is actually the third one built on that same spot. The second hall was built in 1725, and the third in 1832. It was made even bigger in 1867 and 1888. In 1973, it was recognized as a Grade II* listed building, which means it's a very important historic place. Today, the hall is used for important events and award ceremonies for local businesses.
Members and Leaders
Members of the company are called "freemen." There are currently 447 freemen. Each year, a new Master Cutler is chosen from these freemen. The Master Cutler is helped by two wardens, six searchers, and 24 assistants. The company also has a clerk who handles office work and a beadle for ceremonial duties.
The Annual Feast
Since 1625, the company has held an annual "feast" or banquet. They invite important people to this event. It's a way to show off the amazing industry and products of Sheffield.
Notable Master Cutlers
- From 2011 to 2012, Pamela Liversidge was the Master Cutler. She was the first woman to hold this important position.
- From October 2017 to 2018, Ken Cooke was the 379th Master Cutler.
See also
In Spanish: Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire para niños
