Freemen (Reformed)

• Freemen (Reformed); 1835-present

In 1835 the status of freemen in York as the sole electorate, master craftsmen, traders and officials was ended as part of municipal reform. In 1953 a Gild of freemen was setup to "enhance the good reputation of the City of York" and "maintain and develop the rights and privileges of the Admitted Citizens and Freemen of York".
See also Strays Committee.

Reformed by 5 & 6 Wm. IV., c.76 (Municipal Corporations Act 1835)

Since 1835, freemen continue to be created by patrimony or servitude/apprenticeship but do not enjoy any legal privileges. They initially maintained control and rights to their ancient strays, but these was taken over by the council (with some opposition) and run for the benefit of the wider community in the twentieth century. Both men and women can become freemen.

In 1835 the status of freemen in York as the sole electorate, master craftsmen, traders and officials was ended as part of municipal reform. In 1953 a Gild of freemen was setup to "enhance the good reputation of the City of York" and "maintain and develop the rights and privileges of the Admitted Citizens and Freemen of York".

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

VCH York, www.freemenofyork.org