The eye has it!

The results of the 2009 Hat Design Competition are announced following a tough judging session at Haberdashers' Hall on 27 May.

To read all about the winners, click here

The Clerk Successfully Completes

His Challenge for Charity

Jollyon passes under Tower Bridge

Click below to view more photos -

• the start from Lechlade Bridge 
• the journey 2nd, 5th, 7th and 8th May 
• the finish - Tower Bridge and the celebrations on 10 May

Click here to read Jollyon's article on his experience and his thank you to all sponsors and supporters ...

... and here to go to Jollyon's Thames Challenge webpage

 The Worshipful Company of Feltmakers of London

The Worshipful Company of Feltmakers is today the Livery Company of the hatters.

The first reference to Feltmakers is in London in 1180.  In 1269 the Cappers became officially established.  Hurers made shaggy caps and in 1311 the Hatters were active.  The Hurers and Cappers amalgamated with the Hatters and then merged with the powerful Haberdashers in 1502.  Many feltmakers were already members of the Haberdashers and, as the Haberdashers controlled the retail outlets and the raw materials, this unification seemed sensible. 

The West Porch of St. Bartholemew the Great welcomes liverymen and their guests to the Livery's annual Christmas carol service

In 1583 the Feltmakers petitioned Queen Elizabeth I for their own Charter but it was not granted until 1604, when King James I came to the throne.  In 1667, King Charles II granted an expanded Charter extending their powers.The Company was granted Livery in 1733, number 63 in order of precedence. 

In 1870-74 many famous politicians joined the Feltmakers.  Between them four had been Chancellor, two First Lord of the Admiralty, two President of the Board of trade and two Foreign Secretary.

The hatting trade flourished in the early part of the 20th. century.  Twenty-seven Mayors were elected in 1914-18.  In 1927 there were 9 Knights on the Feltmakers’ Court.  During the second half of the 20th. century, the trade declined.  There are now some 170 Feltmakers drawn from the higher ranks of many professions, businesses and trades as well as the hatting industry.  The Feltmakers have produced two Lord Mayors and are flourishing again.

Read more about us on our History page.........