Exploring Professions in 17th Century England: Guilds and Their Regulations

The 17th century was a significant period in the evolution of crafts and trades in England. The guild system, an integral part of medieval and early modern society, played a crucial role in defining and regulating these professions.

Introduction to Guilds

Guilds were associations of craftsmen and merchants in medieval and early modern European towns. They were responsible for the training, regulation, and control of their members' trades. In England during the 17th century, guilds were formal organisations that often held significant control over the activities of their members. These guilds were seen as a means of maintaining quality standards, ensuring fair competition, and protecting members' interests against those outside the guild.

Types of Guilds in the 17th Century

Trades and Crafts

The list of guilds in the 17th century included a multitude of trades and crafts. These ranged from basic trades like shoemakers and butchers to more specialized fields such as surgeons, chemists, and printers. Each guild had specific rules and regulations governing the conduct of its members and the practices of the trade.

Provisioning and Transportation

In addition to these trades, guilds also included those involved in provisioning and transportation. Vintners, bakers, and those engaged in the transportation of goods also belonged to specific guilds. These guilds ensured that the quality and safety of the products and services they provided met high standards.

Detailed Regulations and Rules

The regulation and rules within the guilds were often detailed and strict. For instance, apprenticeships were a common path for young individuals to enter a trade. An individual wishing to become an apprentice had to find a master within the guild. The duration of apprenticeships could vary, but a five-year period was standard. This period was designed to ensure that the apprentice learned the trade thoroughly and could compete with experienced artisans once he reached adulthood.

Moreover, guilds established rules to regulate the number of apprentices a master could take. This was done to prevent the oversupply of artisans and ensure that each apprentice could receive the necessary training. This regulation also helped prevent unskilled workers from entering the trades, maintaining the quality and reputation of the guild.

Documentation and Access

A wealth of information about these guilds is available through Guild Books. These books, which can be found in many town and city libraries in Britain, provide a detailed account of the guilds, their members, and the regulations they followed. Some of the American universities have also digitised these books, making them easily accessible online.

The Details within these guild books are often addictive. They not only include information about the apprenticeship program but also insights into the working conditions, qualifications, and social norms of the 17th century. These documents offer a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives and struggles of craftsmen and merchants during this period.

Conclusion

The guilds of the 17th century in England were more than just work organisations; they were integral to the social and economic fabric of the community. They provided structure, quality control, and a sense of belonging to their members. Through the study of guild books and other historical records, we can better understand the complex and fascinating world of 17th century trades and their impact on modern society.

Keywords

Guilds, 17th century professions, Apprenticeships