This article was originally published on WHerMoments
When it comes to bizarre traditions, rules, and roles, the British royal family have more than their fair share. There are plenty of royal jobs that may sound pretty strange and outdated today, but still very much exist: the Warden of the Swans, the Grand Carver, the Piper to the Sovereign... No, these aren’t made up job titles! These actually exist, and one particularly interesting case are the Royal Watermen. What does this job entail? How do they serve the royals? Well, this unique position has a fascinating history, and it’s continually evolving.
1. What does the job entail?
Today, the Royal Watermen are called upon whenever the royals want to travel along London’s famous River Thames.
Clad in eye-catching red uniforms and dark hats, they join their esteemed passengers — who can also include other heads of state — for the trips. And their responsibilities don’t end there, either: they’ve got tasks to fulfill away from the waves as well.
2. What does the job entail?
Today, the Royal Watermen are called upon whenever the royals want to travel along London’s famous River Thames.
Clad in eye-catching red uniforms and dark hats, they join their esteemed passengers — who can also include other heads of state — for the trips. And their responsibilities don’t end there, either: they’ve got tasks to fulfill away from the waves as well.
3. On-shore responsibilities
One of the most notable sees Royal Watermen jumping aboard royal carriages for jubilee celebrations and weddings, taking on “boxmen” roles. On top of that, they participate in coronations, too: specifically the procession.
Most recently, they would’ve been seen trailing the King’s Bargemaster on the journey back to Buckingham Palace following King Charles III’s crowning in May 2023.
4. On-shore responsibilities
One of the most notable sees Royal Watermen jumping aboard royal carriages for jubilee celebrations and weddings, taking on “boxmen” roles. On top of that, they participate in coronations, too: specifically the procession.
Most recently, they would’ve been seen trailing the King’s Bargemaster on the journey back to Buckingham Palace following King Charles III’s crowning in May 2023.
5. Ceremonial
If you’re thinking it sounds like an intriguing job, though, consider this: the original role of the Royal Watermen was a lot more interesting! It’s rightly considered a “ceremonial” position today.
But still, that doesn’t mean that any old person can expect to land a position with them. The selection process is very specific in that respect, targeting certain folks with experience on the water.
6. Ceremonial
If you’re thinking it sounds like an intriguing job, though, consider this: the original role of the Royal Watermen was a lot more interesting! It’s rightly considered a “ceremonial” position today.
But still, that doesn’t mean that any old person can expect to land a position with them. The selection process is very specific in that respect, targeting certain folks with experience on the water.
7. The recruitment process
Yes, candidates are recruited from the Thames Watermen, who are responsible for operating barges and tugboats along the aforementioned river. Once they become Royal Watermen, they’re then handed a “Warrant of Appointment” and a tiny annual payment for the gig. How much?
Well, the reported figure is said to be a little over $4. Hey, we did say it was small!
8. The recruitment process
Yes, candidates are recruited from the Thames Watermen, who are responsible for operating barges and tugboats along the aforementioned river. Once they become Royal Watermen, they’re then handed a “Warrant of Appointment” and a tiny annual payment for the gig. How much?
Well, the reported figure is said to be a little over $4. Hey, we did say it was small!
9. Meeting the King’s Bargemaster
Everything is overseen by the King’s Bargemaster, whom we mentioned a little earlier. The current incumbent’s name is Chris Livett, and it’s fair to say that his family has major ties to jobs on the water.
In fact, he’s part of a Thames Watermen dynasty. Livett went into more detail about that while chatting with the MyLondon website in June 2022.
10. Meeting the King’s Bargemaster
Everything is overseen by the King’s Bargemaster, whom we mentioned a little earlier. The current incumbent’s name is Chris Livett, and it’s fair to say that his family has major ties to jobs on the water.
In fact, he’s part of a Thames Watermen dynasty. Livett went into more detail about that while chatting with the MyLondon website in June 2022.
11. “All of them have been watermen”
Livett noted, “My dad, Ron, was a tugmaster and his tugs were working the Thames anywhere between Putney and Gravesend and around the Medway. My grandfather Joe and great-grandfather — also Joe — were tugmasters before him.
We can trace the family back to about 1710 and all of them have been watermen.”
12. “All of them have been watermen”
Livett noted, “My dad, Ron, was a tugmaster and his tugs were working the Thames anywhere between Putney and Gravesend and around the Medway. My grandfather Joe and great-grandfather — also Joe — were tugmasters before him.
We can trace the family back to about 1710 and all of them have been watermen.”
13. Historic moments
Thanks to his work on the Thames, Livett was eventually appointed as Queen Elizabeth II’s Bargemaster in 2018. Since then, he’s taken part in some pretty memorable events, including the festivities of the late monarch’s jubilee in 2022 and her son’s coronation.
Historical occasions for sure, but Livett isn’t the only bargemaster to have overseen such moments. After all, the job is centuries old.
14. Historic moments
Thanks to his work on the Thames, Livett was eventually appointed as Queen Elizabeth II’s Bargemaster in 2018. Since then, he’s taken part in some pretty memorable events, including the festivities of the late monarch’s jubilee in 2022 and her son’s coronation.
Historical occasions for sure, but Livett isn’t the only bargemaster to have overseen such moments. After all, the job is centuries old.
15. How the tradition started
The Royal Bargemaster role can be traced all the way back to the 13th century, coinciding with the Magna Carta’s signing. And it isn’t hard to understand why the job, and that of the Royal Watermen, came to be.
Given the state of the roads back then, at the time the monarchs thought that traveling by boat was much more preferable. And that wasn’t all.
16. How the tradition started
The Royal Bargemaster role can be traced all the way back to the 13th century, coinciding with the Magna Carta’s signing. And it isn’t hard to understand why the job, and that of the Royal Watermen, came to be.
Given the state of the roads back then, at the time the monarchs thought that traveling by boat was much more preferable. And that wasn’t all.
17. Convenient connection
Royal residences found in Westminster, Greenwich, Windsor, and Hampton Court were each connected via the River Thames, as was the Tower of London. That convenience wasn’t lost on the royals, so they called upon boats and barges for their trips around the city.
And that’s where the watermen came into the picture. We can’t forget that someone needed to pilot and power those vessels!
18. Convenient connection
Royal residences found in Westminster, Greenwich, Windsor, and Hampton Court were each connected via the River Thames, as was the Tower of London. That convenience wasn’t lost on the royals, so they called upon boats and barges for their trips around the city.
And that’s where the watermen came into the picture. We can’t forget that someone needed to pilot and power those vessels!
19. Plenty of work
On that note, the watermen were tasked to row their royal passengers back and forth between their palace residences. Plus, the workers would step up for special events as well.
Compared to the almost-leisurely nature of the role today, it was incredibly hectic during that period. The number of watermen on call at the time was a pretty good reflection of that.
20. Plenty of work
On that note, the watermen were tasked to row their royal passengers back and forth between their palace residences. Plus, the workers would step up for special events as well.
Compared to the almost-leisurely nature of the role today, it was incredibly hectic during that period. The number of watermen on call at the time was a pretty good reflection of that.
21. Eventual decline
Yep, at the height of the job, the King’s — or Queen’s — Bargemaster was leading up to 48 Royal Watermen. Yet as time went on, other modes of transport started to become more popular, particularly with the continuing improvement of the road network.
And as a result, traveling via boat had rather lost its luster by the mid-1800s. Still, though, the royals kept hold of their watermen.
22. Eventual decline
Yep, at the height of the job, the King’s — or Queen’s — Bargemaster was leading up to 48 Royal Watermen. Yet as time went on, other modes of transport started to become more popular, particularly with the continuing improvement of the road network.
And as a result, traveling via boat had rather lost its luster by the mid-1800s. Still, though, the royals kept hold of their watermen.
23. A big call by the King
Mind you, that’s not to say there weren’t significant changes afoot. During the reign of King Edward VII, he decided to slash the number of Royal Watermen.
The monarch reduced the figure down to 24, which remains the same today. From there, the role’s switch between active to ceremonial wasn’t too far behind, either.
24. A big call by the King
Mind you, that’s not to say there weren’t significant changes afoot. During the reign of King Edward VII, he decided to slash the number of Royal Watermen.
The monarch reduced the figure down to 24, which remains the same today. From there, the role’s switch between active to ceremonial wasn’t too far behind, either.
25. Hard to miss
As we’ve firmly established, though, the Royal Watermen haven’t faded from memory since those changes were enforced. They’re still on call for ceremonial activities and dressed to the nines to carry it all out. In that respect, the guys are very hard to miss.
You see, when it comes to their uniforms, you’d be hard-pressed to name a fancier-looking bunch: the outfit just screams royal tradition!
26. Hard to miss
As we’ve firmly established, though, the Royal Watermen haven’t faded from memory since those changes were enforced. They’re still on call for ceremonial activities and dressed to the nines to carry it all out. In that respect, the guys are very hard to miss.
You see, when it comes to their uniforms, you’d be hard-pressed to name a fancier-looking bunch: the outfit just screams royal tradition!
27. Classic uniforms
All of the watermen rock bright red jackets that display the Royal Cypher on both the torso and back. They also wear a white undershirt in addition to shortened pants, red stockings, and dark shoes.
Plus, to top it all off, each man sports a black or navy cap, too. Standing together, the group wouldn’t look out of place in an old royal court from hundreds of years ago!
28. Classic uniforms
All of the watermen rock bright red jackets that display the Royal Cypher on both the torso and back. They also wear a white undershirt in addition to shortened pants, red stockings, and dark shoes.
Plus, to top it all off, each man sports a black or navy cap, too. Standing together, the group wouldn’t look out of place in an old royal court from hundreds of years ago!
29. Similar look
The Royal Watermen aren’t alone in that regard, either. For instance, the Marker of the Swans, who’s responsible for “swan upping” — counting — for the royal family, sports a similarly bright number. He’s clad in red and white, while a swan’s feather rests atop his hat.
We’ll be learning a lot more about that job in a bit, but going back to the watermen, our thoughts keep circling around a big question.
30. Similar look
The Royal Watermen aren’t alone in that regard, either. For instance, the Marker of the Swans, who’s responsible for “swan upping” — counting — for the royal family, sports a similarly bright number. He’s clad in red and white, while a swan’s feather rests atop his hat.
We’ll be learning a lot more about that job in a bit, but going back to the watermen, our thoughts keep circling around a big question.
31. What’s next?
Quite simply, what’s next for the Royal Watermen? With Charles’ coronation out of the way, when will we be seeing them again?
Well, as we noted before, when they’re not joining royals on the water today, they are called upon for weddings and the monarch’s jubilee events. But it’ll be quite a while before the latter celebrations start to come into focus.
32. What’s next?
Quite simply, what’s next for the Royal Watermen? With Charles’ coronation out of the way, when will we be seeing them again?
Well, as we noted before, when they’re not joining royals on the water today, they are called upon for weddings and the monarch’s jubilee events. But it’ll be quite a while before the latter celebrations start to come into focus.
33. A long wait
Yes, Charles’ first jubilee isn’t set for another 24 years: he’d be 99 at the time, in case you were curious.
So if we couple that with the fact that there are no royal weddings on the horizon, the watermen’s schedule seems to be pretty clear going forward. Having said that, they and the King’s Bargemaster will be needed for one big event soon enough.
34. A long wait
Yes, Charles’ first jubilee isn’t set for another 24 years: he’d be 99 at the time, in case you were curious.
So if we couple that with the fact that there are no royal weddings on the horizon, the watermen’s schedule seems to be pretty clear going forward. Having said that, they and the King’s Bargemaster will be needed for one big event soon enough.
35. The State Opening of Parliament
As part of their ceremonial duties, the Royal Watermen play a role in the State Opening of Parliament. It’s an eye-catching moment in the U.K. calendar: a procession takes the sovereign to Westminster from Buckingham Palace.
Now in the past, their crown, the “Cap of Maintenance,” and the “Sword of State” all arrived at the Houses of Parliament via boat from the Tower of London.
36. The State Opening of Parliament
As part of their ceremonial duties, the Royal Watermen play a role in the State Opening of Parliament. It’s an eye-catching moment in the U.K. calendar: a procession takes the sovereign to Westminster from Buckingham Palace.
Now in the past, their crown, the “Cap of Maintenance,” and the “Sword of State” all arrived at the Houses of Parliament via boat from the Tower of London.
37. Honoring tradition
To honor that tradition today, the regalia is placed inside a coach during the procession with the King’s Bargemaster and a waterman watching over them. The previous opening took place in May 2022 and the next is scheduled for the fall of 2023.
So we certainly haven’t seen the last of the Royal Watermen. And the same can be said for the Marker of the Swans, too.
38. Honoring tradition
To honor that tradition today, the regalia is placed inside a coach during the procession with the King’s Bargemaster and a waterman watching over them. The previous opening took place in May 2022 and the next is scheduled for the fall of 2023.
So we certainly haven’t seen the last of the Royal Watermen. And the same can be said for the Marker of the Swans, too.
39. David Barber
The current Royal Swan Marker is David Barber and it’s a post he’s held for almost three decades. Along with his cap decorated with a large swan feather, he gets to wear a fetching red blazer adorned with gold braid.
Describing his uniform to the BBC in 2017 Barber revealed, “The [blazer] buttons have the Crown and [royal] Cypher on them and so does the arm badge.” But what does David do? There's much more to the centuries-old role than the elaborate uniform, that's for sure.
40. David Barber
The current Royal Swan Marker is David Barber and it’s a post he’s held for almost three decades. Along with his cap decorated with a large swan feather, he gets to wear a fetching red blazer adorned with gold braid.
Describing his uniform to the BBC in 2017 Barber revealed, “The [blazer] buttons have the Crown and [royal] Cypher on them and so does the arm badge.” But what does David do? There's much more to the centuries-old role than the elaborate uniform, that's for sure.
41. A flurry of feathers
Picture the scene — several wooden rowing boats stealthily approach a family of swans on the River Thames, some miles upriver from London. The boats converge, trapping the birds.
Suddenly, one of the men grabs a cygnet — a young swan — and with a flurry of wings and feathers, hauls the frightened bird into the boat. What broad-daylight skullduggery is this? Are they modern-day rustlers, anxious to sample roast swan?
42. A flurry of feathers
Picture the scene — several wooden rowing boats stealthily approach a family of swans on the River Thames, some miles upriver from London. The boats converge, trapping the birds.
Suddenly, one of the men grabs a cygnet — a young swan — and with a flurry of wings and feathers, hauls the frightened bird into the boat. What broad-daylight skullduggery is this? Are they modern-day rustlers, anxious to sample roast swan?
43. Swan upping
Happily, these men are not criminals. They’re engaged in an entirely legal activity, an historic ritual known as swan upping. They’re actually working on behalf of the British monarch and two ancient organizations called livery companies, tagging the swans to denote ownership.
In fact, it’s more than a merely ceremonial pursuit: swan upping also has an important part to play in conserving these majestic mute swans.
44. Swan upping
Happily, these men are not criminals. They’re engaged in an entirely legal activity, an historic ritual known as swan upping. They’re actually working on behalf of the British monarch and two ancient organizations called livery companies, tagging the swans to denote ownership.
In fact, it’s more than a merely ceremonial pursuit: swan upping also has an important part to play in conserving these majestic mute swans.
45. Dyers and Vintners
There’s a widespread belief in Britain that the monarch — now King Charles III of course — owns every swan in the country. But that’s actually wrong. Ownership of swans is split between the King and the two livery companies we mentioned.
They are ancient trade guilds known as Worshipful Companies, the Dyers and the Vintners. The name Dyers explains itself, while Vintners represent wine-sellers. These companies have had swan rights since the 15th century.
46. Dyers and Vintners
There’s a widespread belief in Britain that the monarch — now King Charles III of course — owns every swan in the country. But that’s actually wrong. Ownership of swans is split between the King and the two livery companies we mentioned.
They are ancient trade guilds known as Worshipful Companies, the Dyers and the Vintners. The name Dyers explains itself, while Vintners represent wine-sellers. These companies have had swan rights since the 15th century.
47. Mute, whooper and Bewick’s
But why all this fuss over swans, just one of the many species of bird that ply the skies and waterways of Britain? Actually there are three types of swan commonly seen in Britain: mute, whooper and Bewick’s. But it’s only the mute swans that come under the royal and livery company rights.
The other swan species are left to their own devices. Mute swans are the only ones considered by ancient tradition to be “royal.”
48. Mute, whooper and Bewick’s
But why all this fuss over swans, just one of the many species of bird that ply the skies and waterways of Britain? Actually there are three types of swan commonly seen in Britain: mute, whooper and Bewick’s. But it’s only the mute swans that come under the royal and livery company rights.
The other swan species are left to their own devices. Mute swans are the only ones considered by ancient tradition to be “royal.”
50. Not really mute
By the way, mute swans are not entirely mute; they can make rather inelegant squawking and honking calls when they choose. And despite the respected position they enjoy in the U.K., they have a very different image in the U.S.
There, the birds are actually an introduced species, first brought to America in the 19th century. They’re regarded as a nuisance bird that destroys habitats and scares native wild fowl.
49. Not really mute
By the way, mute swans are not entirely mute; they can make rather inelegant squawking and honking calls when they choose. And despite the respected position they enjoy in the U.K., they have a very different image in the U.S.
There, the birds are actually an introduced species, first brought to America in the 19th century. They’re regarded as a nuisance bird that destroys habitats and scares native wild fowl.
51. Royalty and wealthy trade guilds
The attitude of the British to their mute swans — a native breed there — is totally different to the view of American conservationists.
The way the British view swans dates back many centuries and is inextricably linked with social hierarchies; it’s no accident that the bird has associations with royalty and wealthy trade guilds. The high status of swans, their owners, and even consumers goes way back to the 12th century.
52. Royalty and wealthy trade guilds
The attitude of the British to their mute swans — a native breed there — is totally different to the view of American conservationists.
The way the British view swans dates back many centuries and is inextricably linked with social hierarchies; it’s no accident that the bird has associations with royalty and wealthy trade guilds. The high status of swans, their owners, and even consumers goes way back to the 12th century.
53. Feast days and special occasions
If you were in a position to control swans and to kill and eat them, that was a sure sign that you were very high up in England’s social order. But even for the nobility and royalty, swans were hardly an everyday supper.
They were reserved for feast days and special occasions. Swans would be served roasted but with their plumage artfully arranged so they almost looked alive.
54. Feast days and special occasions
If you were in a position to control swans and to kill and eat them, that was a sure sign that you were very high up in England’s social order. But even for the nobility and royalty, swans were hardly an everyday supper.
They were reserved for feast days and special occasions. Swans would be served roasted but with their plumage artfully arranged so they almost looked alive.
55. Christmas dinner
One feast where they would be likely served at the tables of the high and mighty was Christmas. Royalty in particular regarded the swan as appropriate fare for Yuletide celebrations. It’s said that at King Henry II’s Christmas dinner in 1247 no fewer than 40 roast swans were served to the guests.
A little more than two centuries after that lavish meal, a royal law was passed to keep swans the exclusive preserve of the wealthy.
56. Christmas dinner
One feast where they would be likely served at the tables of the high and mighty was Christmas. Royalty in particular regarded the swan as appropriate fare for Yuletide celebrations. It’s said that at King Henry II’s Christmas dinner in 1247 no fewer than 40 roast swans were served to the guests.
A little more than two centuries after that lavish meal, a royal law was passed to keep swans the exclusive preserve of the wealthy.
57. Swan marks
In 1482, just a year before his death, King Edward IV made a royal proclamation that only those who owned land and had an income of a certain minimum level were allowed to own swans.
The birds were to be marked with nicks on their beaks to show who owned a particular bird. A complicated system of swan marks quickly evolved.
58. Swan marks
In 1482, just a year before his death, King Edward IV made a royal proclamation that only those who owned land and had an income of a certain minimum level were allowed to own swans.
The birds were to be marked with nicks on their beaks to show who owned a particular bird. A complicated system of swan marks quickly evolved.
59. A unique swan mark
Only if you owned the rights to a unique swan mark could you claim ownership of swans. Those marks were expensive to buy and this kept the number of people with a right to keep and take swans to a restricted elite.
But the monarch did rather well out of this system. For any swan that was unmarked was regarded as belonging to the Crown.
60. A unique swan mark
Only if you owned the rights to a unique swan mark could you claim ownership of swans. Those marks were expensive to buy and this kept the number of people with a right to keep and take swans to a restricted elite.
But the monarch did rather well out of this system. For any swan that was unmarked was regarded as belonging to the Crown.
61. Swanmoots
So, in medieval times swan rights were strictly limited, and only those of exceptional wealth, such as livery companies, universities, and aristocratic landowners had a look-in when it came to the birds.
The regulations were strictly enforced, and it was a serious offense to alter a swan mark in any way. There were even special courts called Swanmoots to settle disputes and mete out justice.
62. Swanmoots
So, in medieval times swan rights were strictly limited, and only those of exceptional wealth, such as livery companies, universities, and aristocratic landowners had a look-in when it came to the birds.
The regulations were strictly enforced, and it was a serious offense to alter a swan mark in any way. There were even special courts called Swanmoots to settle disputes and mete out justice.
63. The Order of Swannes
In a July 2017 article, Smithsonian Magazine titled “The Order of Swannes” quoted from regulations dated 1570. It said, “If any person do raze out, counterfeit or alter the mark of any swan [they …] shall suffer one year’s imprisonment.”
There were also stiff penalties for taking swans’ eggs or for killing birds belonging to someone else. It seems that those who owned swans were determined to protect their property.
64. The Order of Swannes
In a July 2017 article, Smithsonian Magazine titled “The Order of Swannes” quoted from regulations dated 1570. It said, “If any person do raze out, counterfeit or alter the mark of any swan [they …] shall suffer one year’s imprisonment.”
There were also stiff penalties for taking swans’ eggs or for killing birds belonging to someone else. It seems that those who owned swans were determined to protect their property.
65. Swan bling
In fact, owning swans wasn’t just about having a ready supply of roasted birds. As much as anything, owning swans confirmed your social position. Talking to newspaper The New York Times in September 2022, author and professor Katy Barnett explained this.
“It became this status symbol, kind of like pop stars have tigers on leashes and bling and that kind of stuff,” she said. Although it has to be said that few celebrities actually eat their tigers.
66. Swan bling
In fact, owning swans wasn’t just about having a ready supply of roasted birds. As much as anything, owning swans confirmed your social position. Talking to newspaper The New York Times in September 2022, author and professor Katy Barnett explained this.
“It became this status symbol, kind of like pop stars have tigers on leashes and bling and that kind of stuff,” she said. Although it has to be said that few celebrities actually eat their tigers.
67. Royal fish
It seems that Elizabeth I strengthened the position of royalty’s grip on mute swans. It was during her reign that the convention saying all unmarked swans belonged to the crown was codified, although it took a legal dispute to make this happen.
The upshot was that the Queen grabbed ownership not only of unmarked swans, but also whales, porpoises, and sturgeons, which were styled as “royal fish.”
68. Royal fish
It seems that Elizabeth I strengthened the position of royalty’s grip on mute swans. It was during her reign that the convention saying all unmarked swans belonged to the crown was codified, although it took a legal dispute to make this happen.
The upshot was that the Queen grabbed ownership not only of unmarked swans, but also whales, porpoises, and sturgeons, which were styled as “royal fish.”
69. A monster sturgeon
The law about “royal fish” might be some five centuries old, but it apparently still holds sway to this day. In 2004 a Welsh fisherman called Robert Davies caught a monster sturgeon — 10 feet from nose to tail. Observing protocol, he offered the fish to the Queen.
Generously, she allowed Davies to keep his catch. That was good news for him, because the fish was valued at about $15,000.
70. A monster sturgeon
The law about “royal fish” might be some five centuries old, but it apparently still holds sway to this day. In 2004 a Welsh fisherman called Robert Davies caught a monster sturgeon — 10 feet from nose to tail. Observing protocol, he offered the fish to the Queen.
Generously, she allowed Davies to keep his catch. That was good news for him, because the fish was valued at about $15,000.
71. Swan privileges
But back to swans. We mentioned earlier that just three entities have the right to “own” swans today: the Crown and the two livery companies, the Vintners, and the Dyers.
But just what are these two worshipful companies, and how did they muscle in on England’s exclusive swan business? The two organizations were granted their swan privileges back in the 15th century.
72. Swan privileges
But back to swans. We mentioned earlier that just three entities have the right to “own” swans today: the Crown and the two livery companies, the Vintners, and the Dyers.
But just what are these two worshipful companies, and how did they muscle in on England’s exclusive swan business? The two organizations were granted their swan privileges back in the 15th century.
74. The Worshipful Company of Dyers
The Worshipful Company of Dyers is based in the City of London, the part of the capital once surrounded by walls. A guild was a bit like a cross between a trade body and a union; it controlled the terms of business and the quality standards to which dyers adhered.
The dyers’ guild dates from 1188 A.D., and King Henry VI gave the organization its charter in 1471. This was a key moment since it gave the dyers official — and royal — status.
73. The Worshipful Company of Dyers
The Worshipful Company of Dyers is based in the City of London, the part of the capital once surrounded by walls. A guild was a bit like a cross between a trade body and a union; it controlled the terms of business and the quality standards to which dyers adhered.
The dyers’ guild dates from 1188 A.D., and King Henry VI gave the organization its charter in 1471. This was a key moment since it gave the dyers official — and royal — status.
75. The Worshipful Company of Vintners
The Worshipful Company of Vintners has an equally illustrious history, with its first charter coming in 1363. The guild controlled the lucrative wine trade of the Middle Ages, which was one of the most important commercial operations of its day.
Like the Dyers guild, today the Vintners is still a key player in the social and business fabric of the City of London.
76. The Worshipful Company of Vintners
The Worshipful Company of Vintners has an equally illustrious history, with its first charter coming in 1363. The guild controlled the lucrative wine trade of the Middle Ages, which was one of the most important commercial operations of its day.
Like the Dyers guild, today the Vintners is still a key player in the social and business fabric of the City of London.
77. Grocers, fishmongers, skinners, and ironmongers
But why were these two guilds given the privilege of owning swans? There were, after all, many other guilds in the City of London: in 1515 there were 48 of them, ranging from grocers to fishmongers and from skinners to ironmongers.
Yet the Crown only granted the vintners and dyers the right to own swans. The other livery companies must surely have been peeved.
78. Grocers, fishmongers, skinners, and ironmongers
But why were these two guilds given the privilege of owning swans? There were, after all, many other guilds in the City of London: in 1515 there were 48 of them, ranging from grocers to fishmongers and from skinners to ironmongers.
Yet the Crown only granted the vintners and dyers the right to own swans. The other livery companies must surely have been peeved.
79. A sweetener
Writing in Smithsonian Magazine in 2017, Emily Cleaver conceded that the reason for those two guilds getting the nod on swans was unclear as far as the historical record went.
But she speculated, “It is likely to have been a sweetener to strengthen relationships between the Crown and the powerful trade guilds.” Even medieval royalty had every reason to keep on the right side of powerful commercial interests, it seems.
80. A sweetener
Writing in Smithsonian Magazine in 2017, Emily Cleaver conceded that the reason for those two guilds getting the nod on swans was unclear as far as the historical record went.
But she speculated, “It is likely to have been a sweetener to strengthen relationships between the Crown and the powerful trade guilds.” Even medieval royalty had every reason to keep on the right side of powerful commercial interests, it seems.
81. The Swan Marker
As we’ve seen, swan upping has a venerable history. But what actually happens during the modern version of the annual event? Swan upping is held in the third week of July and is limited to certain stretches of the upper waters of the River Thames.
The event is presided over by the Sovereign’s Swan Marker, who is helped in his duties by the King’s Swan Warden.
82. The Swan Marker
As we’ve seen, swan upping has a venerable history. But what actually happens during the modern version of the annual event? Swan upping is held in the third week of July and is limited to certain stretches of the upper waters of the River Thames.
The event is presided over by the Sovereign’s Swan Marker, who is helped in his duties by the King’s Swan Warden.
83. Charles III
The 2022 upping was the last one to be held during the reign of Elizabeth II. From now on it will be held under the authority of Britain’s new king, Charles III. Traditions are set to continue, with the Swan Marker wearing a nautical-style cap decorated with a swan’s feather.
Other participants — the people who row the boats and catch and ring the swans — wear colored shirts to show whether they are representing the monarch or one of the livery companies.
84. Charles III
The 2022 upping was the last one to be held during the reign of Elizabeth II. From now on it will be held under the authority of Britain’s new king, Charles III. Traditions are set to continue, with the Swan Marker wearing a nautical-style cap decorated with a swan’s feather.
Other participants — the people who row the boats and catch and ring the swans — wear colored shirts to show whether they are representing the monarch or one of the livery companies.
86. A flotilla of six skiffs
This report of the 1981 swan upping reproduced on the Thamesweb website gives a good flavor of the operation. “A flotilla of six skiffs was towed upstream to Romney Lock by a motor launch,” the report says.
“Two skiffs carried the Queen's Standard, two carried the flag of the Dyers’ company and two the flag of the Vintners’ company.”
85. A flotilla of six skiffs
This report of the 1981 swan upping reproduced on the Thamesweb website gives a good flavor of the operation. “A flotilla of six skiffs was towed upstream to Romney Lock by a motor launch,” the report says.
“Two skiffs carried the Queen's Standard, two carried the flag of the Dyers’ company and two the flag of the Vintners’ company.”
87. Royal pomp
The report of this splendid parade up the Thames continued, “The sovereign's crews wore red blazers or sweaters and were led by the Keeper of the Royal Swans, Captain John Turk of Cookham, who took over the office from his father in 1963.
The Dyers wore navy blue and Vintners white sweaters or dark-green blazers.” If there’s one thing at which the British excel, it’s royal pomp.
88. Royal pomp
The report of this splendid parade up the Thames continued, “The sovereign's crews wore red blazers or sweaters and were led by the Keeper of the Royal Swans, Captain John Turk of Cookham, who took over the office from his father in 1963.
The Dyers wore navy blue and Vintners white sweaters or dark-green blazers.” If there’s one thing at which the British excel, it’s royal pomp.
89. A wingspan of 8 feet
But how easy actually is it to get your hands on one of these big birds? In a 2021 interview with People magazine, David Barber, the current Royal Swan Marker, described the very physical activity of actually capturing the swans. “Swans are large birds that weigh more than 30 pounds,” he pointed out. “They have a wingspan of approximately 8 feet, so they are a very large bird to deal with.
They are heavy to get out of the water and, of course, they flap around quite a bit too.” So despite the smart uniforms and royal associations, swan upping is a far from decorous activity.
90. A wingspan of 8 feet
But how easy actually is it to get your hands on one of these big birds? In a 2021 interview with People magazine, David Barber, the current Royal Swan Marker, described the very physical activity of actually capturing the swans. “Swans are large birds that weigh more than 30 pounds,” he pointed out. “They have a wingspan of approximately 8 feet, so they are a very large bird to deal with.
They are heavy to get out of the water and, of course, they flap around quite a bit too.” So despite the smart uniforms and royal associations, swan upping is a far from decorous activity.
91. Arm-breaking?
Speaking to The New York Times, Barker was keen to dispel a widely held belief among the British that a swan can break a man’s arm with its formidable wings.
“The wings on a swan are very powerful, but it is very unlikely that it would break a man’s arm,” Barker pointed out. “It’s a myth because they wanted to keep people away from swans hundreds of years ago.”
92. Arm-breaking?
Speaking to The New York Times, Barker was keen to dispel a widely held belief among the British that a swan can break a man’s arm with its formidable wings.
“The wings on a swan are very powerful, but it is very unlikely that it would break a man’s arm,” Barker pointed out. “It’s a myth because they wanted to keep people away from swans hundreds of years ago.”
93. A royal presence
So the swans on certain sections of the Thames are counted and tagged every year on behalf of the monarch. But did Elizabeth play any part in this annual jamboree? It seems she did at least once. Barber recalled the occasion, saying, “The Queen visited swan upping in 2009.
She came along and was very interested in all the processes that we were doing. Asked lots of questions. Met lots of children.”
94. A royal presence
So the swans on certain sections of the Thames are counted and tagged every year on behalf of the monarch. But did Elizabeth play any part in this annual jamboree? It seems she did at least once. Barber recalled the occasion, saying, “The Queen visited swan upping in 2009.
She came along and was very interested in all the processes that we were doing. Asked lots of questions. Met lots of children.”
95. Roast swan at Buckingham Palace?
So if King Charles invites you to a royal banquet at Buckingham Palace, how likely is it that you’ll be served roast swan? The chances of that are, in fact, roughly zero. For a start, Charles is well known for his deeply held beliefs about conservation.
Plus there’s the fact that the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act makes it a criminal offense to kill a swan in Britain.
96. Roast swan at Buckingham Palace?
So if King Charles invites you to a royal banquet at Buckingham Palace, how likely is it that you’ll be served roast swan? The chances of that are, in fact, roughly zero. For a start, Charles is well known for his deeply held beliefs about conservation.
Plus there’s the fact that the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act makes it a criminal offense to kill a swan in Britain.
97. Swan upping for King Charles?
So even though the British monarch owns all swans that are not the property of the Vintners or the Dyers, royals no longer eat them, as some of their ancestors did.
But will Charles show his face at a future swan upping? Barber believes he’ll certainly be interested. But only time will tell whether he’ll attend in person.
98. Swan upping for King Charles?
So even though the British monarch owns all swans that are not the property of the Vintners or the Dyers, royals no longer eat them, as some of their ancestors did.
But will Charles show his face at a future swan upping? Barber believes he’ll certainly be interested. But only time will tell whether he’ll attend in person.