Freemen are those who were not the property of a feudal lord but enjoyed privileges such as the right to earn money and own land. They were historically allowed to bring livestock and tools into the city without paying tax in a tradition dating back to the 12th century. Town dwellers who were protected by the charter of their town or city were often free – hence the term 'freedom' of the City.
From the Middle Ages and the Victorian era, the Freedom was the right to trade, enabling members of a Guild or Livery to carry out their trade or craft in the Square Mile.
In medieval times, sheep farmers drove their sheep across London Bridge into the City to sell them at market. Freemen of the City were excused the bridge toll that was a required payment from those outside the City. The driving of sheep to the City markets stopped many years ago, but in recent years the tradition has been ceremonially re-introduced as a fundraising event, with a flock of sheep brought in especially for the event.
EX MP and now TV presenter Michael Portillo, who is a Freeman, led the first flock of sheep over the bridge. More than 600 Freeman took part.
The sheep were very well behaved and totally ignored the buses and coaches that were passing within a metre or so of them.
This building is the Fishsmongers' Company on the north side of the bridge. This is where the Freeman had to report. Each group then led their sheep onto the bridge and displayed their certificates
The Worshipful Company of Woolmen held a Livery Fair by the Monument. Michael Portillo in his wool suit and carrying a shepherd's crook at the fair -
Sheep waiting to cross from the south side -
This is a certificate to say that this Freeman may exercise the right to bring sheep across the bridge
See more on Sheep Drive on London Bridge.
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