The Incorporation

Tuckers Hall was built and has been owned by the Company of Weavers, Tuckers and Shearmen since 1471, but the earliest record of a Guild of Clothworkers in Exeter is 1459, when a dispute with the Cordwainers as to antiquity and precedence is recorded. The Guild regulated the woollen cloth trade in Exeter, which made the city (and Devon) wealthy and a centre for international trade from the 1430s until the end of the 18th century. Exeter was then the third-most important city in the Woollen Cloth trade in the country.

The first rules of the Guild were approved by the Mayor in 1483 and provided for a Court of Assistants, comprising a maximum of 27 members. Three of these Assistants hold the office of Master, Head Warden and Underwarden annually. The Guild obtained a Royal Charter in 1620, and became the Incorporation of Weavers, Fullers and Shearmen.

Meetings of the Court of Assistants, which are known as "Halls", take place twice a year in May and November. The Clerk co-ordinates the meetings, keeps the minutes and carries out correspondence.

The Guild appoints a Beadle who is responsible for the day-to-day running of Tuckers Hall.

After a number of years' absence the Livery has been reinstated to broaden the base of and bring strength to the membership. Those eligible to apply for membership include those in trade who are owners of their own business in the city of Exeter and the surrounding area or who contribute to the local community.

Local business men continue to maintain and keep alive the long established traditions which include the May and November Halls, processing immediately behind the Lord Mayor in civic processions, payments to ancient charities and not least the maintenance and upkeep of the hall, the fabric and artefacts.