The Company
The Company proper consists of the Master Cutler who holds office for one year, the Senior Warden, the Junior Warden, six Searchers (who originally had the right to enter property and search out badly or illegally made goods) and twenty-four Assistants.
These thirty-three people are elected every year and control the affairs of the Company. The rest of the Freemen are known as the Commonalty. Traditionally they were men who had served a recognised apprenticeship and who had been granted a mark, or Freedom.
Historically, the role of the Master Cutler was to proclaim the name of Sheffield and uphold the City's unrivalled reputation at conferences, enquiries, national committees and on innumerable deputations. His obligations have not been limited to events concerning the cutlery, steel or tool industries - he is just as likely to be asked to open a charity Bazaar as he is to be asked to speak at a formal business dinner.
Over the centuries, the role of the Master Cutler has changed. Today, he is seen as an Ambassador representing the industries of the Sheffield region, both nationally and internationally.
The Company’s mace was designed by Walter P Belk, a Sheffield silversmith, and was given to the Company in 1897. He also designed the badge now worn by the Master Cutler, first worn by Herbert Barber, Master Cutler in 1909.
Telephone : (44) 0114 272 8456 Fax : (44) 0114 272 1868 Email : admin@cutlers-hallamshire.org.uk