Dean of Guild facts for kids
A Dean of Guild was an important town official in Scotland. These officials, sometimes called magistrates, were part of a group that looked after buildings in Scottish towns. The main leader of this group was known as the Lord Dean of Guild.
Originally, a Dean of Guild was the head of a group called a Guild in Scottish towns. This role started way back in the 12th century. Later, the name "Dean of Guild" also described special courts that began in the 14th century. These courts helped solve arguments between traders. By the 19th century, their main job was to make sure building rules in towns were followed. This important role was later taken over by new laws in the mid-20th century.
It's good to remember that a Dean of Guild was a specific town official. This is different from just being the head of any general guild or trade group.
Today, there is a group called The Court of Deans of Guild of Scotland. This newer group brings together Guildry organizations from many towns. These include Aberdeen, Arbroath, Ayr, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Brechin, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Lanark, Perth, and Stirling. It acts as a main organization for them all.
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