Fellowship

In the 1500s French Huguenot craftsmen arrived in England with the art of fan making. Their fellowship enabled them to form a Guild of Fan Makers which subsequently received its Royal Charter from Queen Anne in 1709. The cornerstone of the Company’s ethos is that being a strong and friendly community enables us to benefit society as whole.

Philanthropy

The Fan Makers Company has evolved from a humble group of artisans into a philanthropic body. Our members are drawn from all walks of life, trades and professions, but with the one common purpose, that of helping others. Our members join us to help causes they believe in, to share their expertise, and to promote the art of giving.

Fans

Fans have been used by man since ancient times with a handful of leaves providing a cooling breeze on a hot summer’s day or wafting a fire into action. In the 16th century the handheld fan became a vital accessory for any lady. Wind farms are probably the most visible use of fans, but jet engines and ventilation systems all incorporate fan technology.

Who are we?

The Fan Makers have provided the City with six Lord Mayors in the three hundred years since it received its Royal Charter. Unlike many livery companies, the Worshipful Company of Fan Makers is no longer a trade association, as the production of the traditional handheld fan ceased in the City many years ago. This has given the Company the opportunity to maintain its relevance in today’s world, by embracing modern technologies, such as wind turbines and jet engines, yet at the same time retaining its rich history.

By not being aligned with an active trade, the membership of the Company is best described as diverse or eclectic, being drawn from all walks of life, genders, ages and professions. Known as “the friendly company” by a host of its peers, the Fan Makers takes great pride in the camaraderie that is enjoyed by its members and guests alike.

Learn more about us

We are always seeking new members and welcome enquiries fromprospective Freemen and apprentices. To find out more about joining us, pleaseuse the link below;

How to join

HM The Queen

On the 13th February 2024, Her Majesty The Queen was installed as an Honorary Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Fan Makers during a ceremony at Clarence House.

THE CITY OF LONDON

Our history and heritage stems from a long term partnership with the city.

MILLITARY

We are proud to have such a strong relationship with our armed services.

CHARITY

A key focus of the livery is to to benefit the wider community

SOCIETY

We host a range of societies within the livery to promote friendships

Our Fan Collection

The Fan Museum holds a world-renowned collection of fans and fan leaves which include the splendid Hélène Alexander Collection and further acquisitions, gifts and bequests which have been received since the museum opened to the public over twenty years ago. The collection is comprehensive, with examples from all over the world from the 11th century to the present day.

Visit The Fan Museum See our fan collection

THE WORSHIPFUL COMPANY OF

The worshipful company of

The worshipful company of

The worshipful company of

The worshipful company of

Who are we?

HM The Queen

Modern use of Fans

Our Fan Collection