The Honourable Company of Freemen of the City of London of North America

The Honourable Company of Freemen of the City of London of North America is a Canadian nonprofit organization established in Toronto in 1979. It was founded with the purpose of maintaining and strengthening commercial, social, and personal links between the City of London in the United Kingdom and North America. The organization serves as an open and inclusive body for individuals who hold or aspire to the Freedom of the City of London, as well as for those with a strong connection to the City[1][3].

History and Purpose

Founded in 1979, the Company aims to foster ongoing relationships with the City of London Corporation and to facilitate networking and cooperation among members residing in North America. It focuses on preserving historical ties and promoting mutual understanding and collaboration in commercial and social spheres between the City of London and North American communities[1][3].

Membership

The Honourable Company offers several categories of membership:

• Regular Membership: Open to any person residing in North America who is a Freeman of the City of London. Regular members have full voting rights and may participate on the organization's Court (governing body)[2].

• Affiliate Membership: Available to residents of North America who are not yet Freemen of the City of London but subscribe to the organization's objectives and commit to obtaining the Freedom within three years. Affiliate members do not have voting rights nor can they sit on the Court[2].

• Associate Membership: For persons who do not permanently reside in North America but are qualified applicants. Associate members also do not have voting rights nor Court seating[2].

Applicants typically require two sponsors from among current members or may undergo an interview if sponsors are unavailable. The Company actively supports affiliate members in the process of applying for the Freedom of the City of London, which remains under the exclusive jurisdiction of the City of London Corporation[2][4].

Governance

The organization is governed by a Court, comprising elected members, including positions such as Deputy Master. The Court oversees the Company's activities and its relationships with the City of London and affiliated institutions[3].

Relationship with the City of London

The Honourable Company of Freemen of the City of London of North America maintains a continuous and valued relationship with the City of London Corporation. This connection is upheld through its members’ shared commitment to the traditions and privileges associated with the Freedom of the City of London. While the Company supports members in pursuing the Freedom, the formal grant remains at the discretion of the City of London Corporation[1][3][4].

Significance of the Freedom

The Freedom of the City of London is a historic status dating back to approximately 1237, originally signifying the rights and privileges of a citizen or free man within the City. Today, it is a ceremonial honor often linked to professional and social status within the City of London. Honorary Freedom, a distinguished variant, is awarded very rarely to individuals of exceptional global stature[5].

This organization exemplifies efforts to sustain historical, cultural, and economic links across continents, promoting mutual respect and cooperation between North America and the historic City of London.