The Worshipful Company of Mercers is the premier livery company of the City of London and ranks first in the order of precedence of the Companies. It is the first of the Great Twelve City Livery Companies.
Magna Carta was negotiated by a member of the Mercers
William Caxton was a Mercer in the 15th century
Sir Rowland Hill, convener of the Geneva Bible project was repeatedly master of the company in the mid 16th century
Thomas Gresham, painted in 1544
A livery company is a type of guild or professional association that originated in medieval times in London, England. Livery companies comprise London's ancient and modern trade associations and guilds, almost all of which are styled the "Worshipful Company of" their respective craft, trade or profession. There are 111 livery companies in total. They play a significant part in the life of the City, not least by providing charitable-giving and networking opportunities. Liverymen retain voting rights for the senior civic offices, such as the Lord Mayor, Sheriffs and Common Council of the City Corporation, London's ancient municipal authority with extensive local government powers.
Fishmongers' Hall on London Bridge, the home of the Fishmongers' Company
The arms of the Mercers' Company above a house on Mercer Street
Memorial to City liverymen killed in action during WW1, at Stationers' Hall
Grocers' Hall in Princes Street, home to the Grocers' Company
