Worshipful Company of Broderers

The company was in existence from at least the 14th century, although no records of the company, other than title deeds, exist before the early 16th century. The company's first charter was granted by Elizabeth I in 1562 and a grant of arms was made in 1558. The company received further charters in 1609 and 1686, as well as ordinances in 1562, 1582, 1609 and 1710. In the 14th century the company had absorbed the Tapissers', or tapestry makers', Company, although no original records of this company survive.

The company's hall was at Gutter Lane, off Cheapside, in the City of London and appears to have been used from the early 16th century. The Hall was destroyed in the Great Fire of London, rebuilt and again totally destroyed inthe Second World War. In 1957 the company sold the Hall under a compulsory purchase order. The modern Company supports the Royal School of Needlework.