17th and 18th Century Trade Databases
In order to make our archives more accessible, the Library has commissioned two leading researchers in the fields of early modern luxury goods production and 18th century silver to produce databases of individuals listed in our records. The information found in these has been supplemented by details from other sources. The databases will provide an invaluable resource for researchers looking at the London silversmithing trade, London history or genealogy during the 17th and 18th centuries.
1682 Mark Plate database
Compiled by Dr David Mitchell this database was originally conceived as a tool to help identify the makers on the 1682 mark plate. It draws on information from the Company’s apprenticeship and freedom registers, records of searches, charitable gifts and loans. It also utilises tax and parish records as well as the few surviving goldsmiths’ ledgers. Users will be able to search approximately 12,500 individuals connected to the goldsmiths’ trade during the 17th century.
How do I search this?
Completion of the database is now in its final stages, with an expected launch date of summer 2012. It will then be available to search in the Library.
Missing MAKERS' MARKS database
Compiled by John Culme, the primary intention of this database is to help identify the names of working goldsmiths and silversmiths which were lost with the two missing marks registers – the Smallworkers book c. 1739-c.1758 and the Largeworkers book c.1758-1773.
It combines sources from the Goldsmiths’ Company archives, such as the Broken Plate Book; the Assay Office Cash Books; the 1772 Parliamentary Report; the 1744 Warning Carriers Walk Book, the Apprentice Books, the Assay Office Court and Committee Books; the Court Books; the Committee Books; Rent Books and miscellaneous items (including later Shopkeepers Names and Places of Abode and Petitioners Books). Outside sources have also been consulted at the Guildhall Library, the London Metropolitan Archives, and the Family Records Centre, Islington.
How do I search this?
The database is still being updated but a working version is available to search now in the Library.