It is not always fully appreciated how the “square mile” is the model of English heritage. Established by the Romans and developed by Alfred the Great, William the Conqueror recognised its autonomy. He built his home castle on the outside of the city wall to signify the corporate independence.

London has been self-regulated since records began. Governed by a Portreeve whose title under King John became Lord Mayor. The Mayor of London has complete control over the municipal wealth and is Admiral of the Port of London, he/she has two supporting Sheriffs who reside at the Old Bailey during their period of office.

Control over the municipal wealth and affairs of the City operates through many ancient customs and traditions. Regulation is by the Common Council made up of the Mayor, Aldermen and the commons represent the various wards. Voters are drawn from the residents and businessmen. Representing Aldermen serve for six years.

The Lord Mayor and the two sheriffs are chosen by the liverymen whose wealth and powers can be seen in in their lavish ancient Halls. These buildings illustrate the historic trades that have made London an extremely wealthy example of England’s commonwealth. There are many traditions associated with the liveries, for example the counting of the Queen’s swans (‘Swan Upping’) on the Thames at Windsor when they are counted, ringed and recorded by the Vintners or the Lightermen’s race across the river. For more on the traditions of London refer within my website re subject London.

The ancient churches and the buildings such as the Guildhall in Aldermanbury Square are integral with the complex workings of the City. There are many clubs and associations in the City where they celebrate historic events. Ward clubs as well as the United Wards Club. The Worshipful Livery Company’s have their various Halls and the ‘Livery Club’ now in the ‘Little Ship’ on the Thames (was in the old Sion College at Blackfriars.

NOTES

‘The election of the Lord Mayor’ takes place annually on Michaelmas Day or the closest day to it if Michaelmas day falls on a weekend. Steeped in tradition. The event reflects The City’s singular history and governance. After a service at the Guild Church of St. Lawrence Jewry, attended by the Lord Mayor, Sheriffs, Aldermen and other dignitaries, the Election proceedings take place at Common Hall, Guildhall. In keeping with centuries of tradition, Liverymen from all the City’s Livery Companies cast their votes by a show of hands. The results are then declared by the Common Cryer and Serjeant-at-Arms.

‘The Silent Ceremony and Presentation of Addresses’ is the unique and historic event where the new Lord Mayor of the City of London is sworn into office – in silence!

During the ‘Silent Ceremony’, several important symbols of office are presented to the new Lord Mayor, each signifying a separate responsibility and area of authority. These include the ‘Sceptre’, which symbolises the Lord Mayor’s governance of the City of London; the ‘Seal’ traditionally used to authorise the documents on behalf of the City and to signify the Mayoral approval; the ‘Purse’, which denotes financial responsibility and management of the City’s funds; the ‘Sword, a symbol of the Lord Mayor’s responsibility for maintaining law and order within the City; the ‘Mace’, which represents the Lord Mayor’s protection of the City’s rights and privileges ; the ‘Collar of Esses’ (chain of office) where ‘S’ may stand for ‘Sanctus’ reflecting the virtues of the incumbent – and the ‘Badge’.

In a moment of great solemnity, the outgoing Lord Mayor removes their tricorn hat, while simultaneously the incoming Lord Mayor removes theirs. The silent and symbolic choreography of this act highlights the continuity and stability of governance within the City across the centuries. The Silent Ceremony is followed by the ‘Presentation of Addresses’ by selected livery companies, guilds and other significant bodies wishing to congratulate the new incumbent.

This is a very brief account of the City of London, for more detail check out my website AS.