Worshipful Company of Makers of Playing Cards
A Welcome from The Master
Welcome to our website. We offer a varied programme of events to suit all interests. On our website, you will find information about the background of our Company and the role we have within the City today as well as fascinating information about playing cards and their history.
I hope you enjoy looking through the site and please feel free to get in touch if there is anything we can help you with.
Dr (Christopher) John Eaton Esq. MB BS LRCP MRCS
Master Worshipful Company of Makers of Playingcards
A Brief Company History
The Worshipful Company of Makers of Playing Cards is one of the early Trade Guilds in the City of London.
The Company was founded as the:
"Mistery (trade, art, or occupation) of Makers of Playing Cards of the City of London"
by a Charter granted by King Charles I on 22nd October 1628.
Some 164 years later, on 27th November 1792 the Court of Aldermen of the City of London granted the Company its Livery. Accordingly, though 75th in order of precedence, it is one of the older of the City Livery Companies, which now number 110.
The Makers of Playing Cards is a craft, rather than a trade, Company.

Artist's impression of the Company's House
at St John's Gate Spitalfields
Used for the Masters Installation Cards in 1884
The Company Today
Since the formation of the Company in the Middle Ages when playing cards were the sole entertainment for the population, the production and use of playing cards in London has declined. Today the Company still has card makers as Members.
However, the Company has many other Members connected with playing cards including card collectors, dealers, bridge players, magicians and other professions.
If you are interested in helping to "Make a Difference" in the City and beyond, please visit our Membership link to find out more about how we can help you to make the best use of your skills.
COMPANY NEWS & EVENTS
MAKERS OF PLAYING CARDS CHARITY
INTER LIVERY BRIDGE COMPETITION AND INTERESTING ARTICLES

CONTACT US
CALL: 01869 389958
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A FORCE FOR GOOD
Corde Recto Elati Omnes:
With an Upright Heart All Are Exalted
The Company has been a "Force for Good" in the City for over 380 years. From enabling leisure and entertainment in the Coffee Houses, Parlours and Ale Taverns of King Charles's time, to our more modern role of providing opportunities for disadvantaged children, we have always attracted able people who want to make a difference.
If you are interested in helping to "Make a Difference" in the City and beyond, please contact the Clerk to find out more about how we might help you to make the best use of your skills.

OUR CARD COLLECTION

WCMPC Card Collection
We have a large collection of cards and papers relating to playing cards over the centuries and currently stored at the
London Metropolitan Archive.

WORSHIPFUL COMPANY OF MAKERS OF PLAYING CARDS 2019