The City of London guilds or livery companies were trade and craft associations. Many still exist today in the City. Guilds protected customers, employers and employees by maintaining work standards and quality within a trade. As the companies had grown during the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries, they had acquired halls as places for them to meet. 44 of these halls were destroyed by the fire.
On 2 September 1666 at 8am, Fishmongers’ Hall by London Bridge became the first livery company hall to catch fire. Thanks to the Hall’s riverside location, the company’s most important documents, iron money chest and company silver were safely transported away by boat.
The building itself was destroyed, but was rebuilt after the fire to designs by Christopher Wren.