The history of the Carpenters' Company and Carpenters' Hall.
History of the Carpenters' Company.
Carpenters’ Hall has been home to the Carpenters’ Company since the 15th century. The current hall, the third on this site, was designed by William Willmer Pocock between 1876 and 1880. Although the interior was destroyed during the Blitz, it was meticulously rebuilt in the 1950s, blending timeless heritage with modern function.
Today, Carpenters’ Hall stands as a Grade II listed building, renowned for its cedar-panelled Livery Hall, striking stained-glass windows, and elegant interiors. The hall’s spaces reflect both the craftsmanship of the Carpenters’ Company and the vibrant history of the City of London.
About Carpenters' Hall.
The Carpenters’ Company has been based on London Wall since its first hall was built there in 1429. Since that time, there have been three Halls. The current Hall was opened in 1960.
From medieval times Carpenters’ Hall has been used by groups and organisations to meet and entertain, including other guilds.
The site was originally part of the estate of the Hospital of St Mary without Bishopsgate, also known as St Mary Spital.
In January 1519/20 the land was acquired by Thomas Smart, Master of the Company, and he left it to the Company in his will dated 12 March of the same year.
A fire in the mid-nineteenth century severely weakened the building and a second Hall was built during the 1870s, opening in 1880.
The third hall, which still stands today, was built following an air raid in 1941 when the second Hall was completely burnt out.
The Carpenter's Company charitable work.
The Carpenters’ Company has been committed to charitable activities throughout its history, and this remains a key objective of the Company.
Over time members have endowed the Company with a number of bequests, gifts and trusts which it continues to manage and maintain.The Carpenters’ Company has four main charities.
Two of these charities disburse funds:
The other two fulfil charitable purposes:
The Carpenters’ Company is also closely associated with:
Please clink the links to find out more about the charities