Mon 8th September 2008
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Home > About Us > Royal Warrants
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From earliest times tradesmen and women have served their sovereign by providing goods and services – from making robes and regalia to repairing roofs and painting walls. The first rewards for this loyal service came in the form of Royal Charters which were granted to the trade guilds, later known as livery companies. The earliest recorded Royal Charter was granted to the Weavers’ Company in 1155 by Henry II. In 1394 Dick Whittington helped obtain a Royal Charter for his own Company, the Mercers, who traded in luxury fabrics.
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By the 15th century Royal tradesmen were recognised by means of a Royal Warrant of Appointment - a practice that continues to this day. An early recipient was William Caxton, the first English printer, who was appointed King’s printer in 1476 after setting up his press at Westminster.
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As years passed Royal life and tastes changed. Henry VIII appointed Thomas Hewytt to ‘Serve the Court with Swannes and Cranes’ and ‘all kinds of Wildfoule’. Charles II’s list of Royal tradesmen in 1684 included a Sword Cutter, an Operator for the Teeth, and a Goffe-club Maker, whilst among the tradesmen supplying the Royal Household in 1789 were a pin maker, a mole taker, a card maker and a rat catcher.
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In the late 18th century Warrant Holders began displaying the Royal Arms on their premises and stationery. However, it was Queen Victoria who ensured Royal Warrants gained the prestige they enjoy today. During her 64 year reign the Queen and her family were responsible for granting more Royal Warrants than ever before – more than 2000, eight times as many as the Queen’s uncle, George IV. They included companies such as Fortnum & Mason, Schweppes, and Twinings, all of whom still hold Warrants today. A number of women were granted Warrants including a Modeller of Wax Flowers, a Chronometer Maker and a Silversmith.
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| THE ROYAL WARRANT TODAY |
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Royal Warrants are a mark of recognition to people or companies who have regularly supplied goods or services for at least five years to certain members of the Royal Family. They have always been regarded as a mark of excellence and quality, and are highly prized.
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Four members of the Royal Family currently grant Warrants. Her Majesty The Queen has two Royal Arms, one of which is used in Scotland.
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