Freedom of the City Ceremony at Guildhall
On Thursday, 12th February 2026, the Master, the Clerk, and Members of the Court of the Worshipful Company of Glass Sellers of London were pleased to attend the Chamberlain’s Court at the Guildhall.
During this special occasion, five Glass Sellers Freemen made their formal declarations and received the historic Freedom of the City of London.
This moment marks an important milestone in their Livery journey, symbolising their commitment to the traditions, values, and community spirit of the City and the Glass Sellers Company.
A Proud Moment for the Company
The Company extends its warm congratulations to all newly admitted Freemen. Their achievement strengthens the fellowship of our Livery and reflects the continued vibrancy of our membership.
We look forward to seeing their contributions to the life and work of the Company in the months and years ahead.
Barnard’s Rules: The 300-Year-Old Guide Still Handed to Every New Freeman
The oldest self-help manual did not emerge from a Californian wellness movement. Instead, it came from the heart of the Square Mile nearly three centuries ago.
In the 1730s, Sir John Barnard, a former Lord Mayor of City of London, authored a concise but purposeful volume titled Some Rules for the Conduct of Life. Written for young apprentices finding their way in a complex and often unforgiving commercial world, it laid out the expectations for how a London citizen should live, work, and behave.
Nearly 300 years later, the tradition continues. A copy of Barnard’s book is still presented to every individual admitted to the Freedom of the City of London—over 2,000 each year, and hundreds of thousands over its long history.
Despite its age, the book contains none of today’s fashionable themes: no neuroscience, no productivity hacks, and no promises of instant wealth. Instead, it offers a demanding but timeless blueprint for conduct:
- Choose a good end before you act.
- Use lawful means to reach it.
- Shun vanity and flattery.
- Order your time. Rise early.
- Relieve the poor.
- Keep your passions under command.
- Choose your company carefully.
- Treat gain as lawful, but greed as dangerous.
Its message is clear: freedom without discipline fails. Reputation is not crafted through publicity or image, but through one’s behaviour—particularly when unobserved.
As modern life grows faster and more distracted, Barnard’s rules feel more relevant than ever.
Upcoming Events
23rd February – Ravenscroft Lecture – Glaziers Hall
March 2026
17th March – Court & Livery Dinner – Butchers Hall
20th March – United Guilds Service – St Paul’s Cathedral
April 2026
20th April – Members Night
22nd April – Company visit to Affiliate HMS Artful
