Established in 1433, the guild has played many roles in the Dunfermline economy
Intertwined with local history
The history of the guildry is well understood, but its narrative is distributed through various historical texts. Though its early days in the guilds digital footprint, we hope to bring to life both the history and the context the guildry has operated in for almost 600 years.
Historical beginnings
Guilds, as friendly societies, were common throughout Western Europe from the eighteenth century. Many assumed religious overtones, displayed in the Middle Ages by pageantry and material support of the church. In towns, however, these socio-religious groups often developed a further characteristic: that of the gild as an economic force, with a close interest in the mercantile pursuits.
“Covering ….. the whole burgess population, the Guild would appear to be the first official recognition of that as a self-regulated unity; a big step towards full burghal autonomy, as against control by a superior. The Guild can profess to speak and act for the community as a whole, a new voice and combination in a feudal state which in itself allowed no place for such popular activities.”
Mackenzie, Scot. Burghs
Changing with the times
The guild has seen it’s role change over time, as the country and it’s governance around it has evolved, as has the guild.
Today, the guild represents an ode to its past and maintains itself to best serve its members across the globe, whilst protecting its historical importance.
Learning More
There’s some great resources which bring the history of the guildry to life. Though, admittedly they aren’t always easy to find. To make this easier, we sign-post the relevant reading here.
Notes on Dunfermline - From the Royal Dunfermline site this PDF provides some historical context. (Information about the merchants guild is on page 9).
https://www.royaldunfermline.com/Resources/notes_on_dunfermline_burgh.pdf
The primary source of information used to help construct this site is the “The Gild Court Book of Dunfermline 1433-1597” which provides some detailed context of the Guild.
Burgess Declaration
This declaration is the oath that every new Burgess of Dunfermline takes to become a full member of the Guildry (Burgess). This is sworn in front of the Dean of the Guildry.
BURGH OF DUNFERMLINE
BURGESS DECLARATION
I solemly declare that I will be a true and faithful Burgess of the Royal Burgh of Dunfermline
The Magistrates present and to come, and the Officers charging in their name : bear scot* and lot*
cess and press: and keep watch and ward with my neighbours: keep the Town’s secrets: and
my best advice in the towns affairs.
*The phrase Scot and Lot meant the local levies someone paid, and then received their share of provisions. To be taxes paid on land and goods gave the person voting rights.