Common Council / The "48"or "72"

• Common Council / The "48"or "72"; Pre 1517-1835

The "48" were the most junior tier of representation and emerged in the 14th century from the craft gilds. A common council was instituted in 1518, made up of two members from each of thirteen crafts. This was then expanded in 1633 and switched to geographical representation, with 72 members elected from the four wards. In 1663, outside elections ceased, and vacancies were filled by nomination.
See also Aldermen / The "12" and Councillors / "The 24"

The lower of the two tiers that made up the corporation. Its membership was made up of co-opted freemen and the 24 and 12 filled empty places from its ranks. The common council was infrequently consulted on governance issues by the upper tier, but proactively involved itself on certain issues of local importance and controversy.

The "48" were the most junior tier of representation and emerged in the 14th century from the craft gilds. A common council was instituted in 1518, made up of two members from each of thirteen crafts. This was then expanded in 1633 and switched to geographical representation, with 72 members elected from the four wards. In 1663, outside elections ceased, and vacancies were filled by nomination.

International Standard Archival Authority Record for Corporate Bodies, Persons and Families - ISAAR(CPF) - Ottawa

JBM How York Governs Itself