Name/Title
The Watermen Coat of ArmsEntry/Object ID
2018.258.103Description
A small framed image of the Watermen Company coat of arms, measuring 10.75 x 12.25 inches.
This is a modern version of the Watermen’s Company coat of arms, first granted to the Company in 1585, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, and still in use today. The shield depicts a rowing boat on water, below crossed oars and tasselled cushions, which represent the watermen’s work carrying passengers on the river. The shield is supported by two dolphins and surmounted by a crest of a raised right arm holding a gold oar. “At command of our superiors” is the Company’s motto.
The Company of Watermen and Lightermen of the River Thames was founded in 1514, when the earliest Act of Parliament for regulating watermen, wherrymen and bargemen received Royal Assent from King Henry VIII.
Under a further Act of 1555 the Company introduced apprenticeships for those wishing to learn the skills of the Watermen. In 1700 the Lightermen (carriers of goods/cargo) joined the Watermen’s Company.Collection
Rollie McKenna