The Worshipful Company of Drapers

The Drapers' Company has always had a concern for the relief of the poor, as early as 1371 its ordinances stress the role of the fraternity in helping members in misfortune. Numerous bequests, gifts and trusts have been left to the Company for charitable purposes. Initially lands left to the Company tended to be designated for the provision of a chantry for the deceased benefactor. During the 16th century, the endowments were mainly for provision for the poor - either freemen of the Company or poor in the City of London. A number of almshouses were also founded at this time

The Company's involvement with education originated in the medieval apprenticeship scheme. It was formalized after 1551 when exhibitions were awarded to scholars at Oxford and Cambridge. The Company became involved with the establishment and management of thirteen schools. Later it founded and financed technical schools, university departments, libraries and laboratories and in conjunction with other Livery Companies, established the City and Guilds of London Institute.

Bequests and endowments which formed the basis of the Trusts came from Thomas Howell, d. 1537/8; John Walter; Francis Bancroft; Samuel Harwar, 1693-1694; Theophilus Royley, d.1656; William Lambarde, 1536-1601, founder of Queen Elizabeth College; Henry Dixon, and Henry Dixon, jnr d.1680; John Kendrick; Thomas Russell, d.1593; John Rainey, d 1633; William Dummer, d.c.1589; Samuel Pennoyer, d 1654; John Pemel; Sir William Boreman; Sir Samuel Starling; John Stock; Henry Colbron; Christopher Clarke, d.1672; Sir Thomas Cullum; Sir Ambrose Crowley; Henry Lucas; William Calley, d.1515; Robert Buck; John Edmanson, d.1696; Sir John Jolles, d.1621; Jonathan Granger; Thomas Soley, d.1881; and Sir Thomas Adams.