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History and tradition might seem to sum up the institutions of the City of London but what about Information Technologists and Investment Managers? These are two of the 33 new City Guilds which have been created in recent years, showing that the Square Mile is very much open to change, according to a talk in St Helier arranged by the Arts Society Jersey in conjunction with Jersey Heritage.
The speaker at the Town Church was Paul Jagger, author of The City of London Freeman’s Guide to the customs, ceremonies, officers, landmarks and institutions of the Square Mile. The talk was sponsored by Ravenscroft.
Mr Jagger explained that there are 110 Guilds which have a common purpose: charity, education, support for industry and fellowship. They are also integral to the running of the City. Those who aspire to be Lord Mayor – and there have been some from Guernsey but none from Jersey – have to be a member of one of the Guilds, then become Aldermen and Sheriffs before they can be considered for the top job.
The Guilds all have their own coat of arms and many have historic meeting halls. Mr Jagger could find two connections to Jersey. The man who commissioned the painting The Death of Major Peirson at the Battle of Jersey was an art dealer and Alderman in the late 18thcentury. Coming forward to the present day, Sir Mark Boleat, who has held several high profile positions in Jersey, has been Chairman of the City’s Policy and Resources committee.
The City and Guilds of London Institute was founded in 1878 and is known throughout the world for setting exam qualifications in technical subjects to protect standards in technical education.
