SLHS: Beadles
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Origin Of The Name
The name beadle comes from the Middle English word bedele cf Old English bydel or Old French bedel). It is of ancient Germanic origin and akin to Old English beodan 'to command or proclaim' or Old High German bodo meaning 'a messenger'.
References
In a synagog a beadle or sexton or shammash is the caretaker. The Domesday Book refers to beadles as Bedelli. For instance Cambridge and Durham Universities have two beadles and Oxford University has six. Each of the City of London's livery companies have a Beadle. People sometimes imply that Britain has very few traditions, traditional trades or traditional dress left. However, there are a surprising number of beadles still carrying out duties today.
Further Information..
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None at present.
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Theatres ●
A ceremonial position
Appointment & Functions
They were appointed medieval court officials with responsibilities also to the church and as such they needed to stand out and so their uniform was bright red.
They had many minor jobs including to call people to order at an official court, ceremony or banquet, to head a procession and keep order therein, to usher guests, to announce civic messages, to maintain ceremonial objects eg the Mayor’s mace, etc.
They are there to maintain respect and act on behalf of the Mayor’s minor wishes and as such improve the efficiency of their duties.
Recent Beadles Of Stratford
Last update: 12/12/2024
Created: 18/04/2024
● First Lady Beadle