Freedman First Non-Brit to Join Worshipful Company of Coach Makers
Thursday, May 17, 2012
In the presence of Master Sue Brownson, Wardens Michael Callaghan, Ian Smith, Michael Kimber and Clerk Peter Henderson. David Freedman Esq. of Toronto, Canada was sworn by affirmation to the Freedom of the Worshipful Company of Coach Makers and Coach Harness Makers of London – 1677.
In a monumental moment in David’s life and career, and as the first harness maker from outside the United Kingdom and the only one in decades, he so affirmed his admittance to the Company.
The Worshipful Company of Coach Makers and Coach Harness Makers received its Charter from King Charles 11 on 31st of May 1677, creating the 72nd Livery Company of the City of London.
By the Charter no one could lawfully carry out trade of coach maker or coach harness maker within 20 miles of London without being a member of the company. Today the Worshipful Company of Coach Makers and Coach Harness makers provides a forum for meeting like-minded people whose interests centre on the automotive, aerospace, coach and coach harness making industries. The Livery offers members and guests the opportunity to meet with senior figures and business leaders in unique environments in the city of London. It encourages social interaction by arranging special events nationally and internationally.
The company has long given prizes for the encouragement of good design and workmanship in the construction of vehicle’s and harness. In 1979 Coach Maker awards for outstanding contributions to coach and coach harness making were first presented at the annual British Driving Society Show at Smith’s Lawn in Windsor Castle. The Duke of Edinburgh joined the Livery after winning the award in 1986 and since then has been an active member of the Driving Awards Committee. David Freedman was presented with this prestigious and coveted award in 2004 by the Company’s Warden David Shalit.
Five members of the Royal family have honored the Company by accepting membership and office. including the Duke of Edinburgh in 1863 and HRH Prince Arthur of Connaught in 1927. Current Royal Liverymen include HRH the Duchess of Kent, HRH Prince Michael of Kent and HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
Accompanying David to the court at Tallow Chandlers’ Hall for this honorable ceremony was Nicole Laver along with Paul and Karen Martin of the USA.
For more information on the Worshipful Company of Coach Makers and Coach Harness Makers of London, www.coachmaker.co.uk.
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