A Descriptive Narrative of the Guild Merchant of Preston in the County Palatine of Lancaster, As Celebrated in the Year 1882

William Pollard describes the 1882 Preston Guild celebrations in this very scarce work In this very scarce work, William Pollard describes the 1882 Guild celebrations in Preston. Since 1179 when King Henry II awarded Preston its first royal charter and the right to have a Guild Merchant, only those traders, craftsmen and merchants who were guild members could carry out business. Newcomers needed the Guild's permission to trade, and it was necessary to pay a small fee and publicly swear loyalty to the Mayor and Guild Merchant to join. As Gatherings for renewing membership were infrequent, it was soon accepted that they were only required once in a generation. As a result, from 1542, the Preston Guild took place every 20 years. Due to the numbers who congregated in Preston for the rare event, the Guild became a special opportunity for feasting, processions, and great social gatherings. Although freedom of trade in 1790 meant there was no need for Guilds, people continue to celebrate it as a social occasion today. According to Pollard, the 1882 edition of the Preston festival eclipsed its predecessors, with a great number of inhabitants and visitors, including His Royal Highness the Duke of Cambridge. After introducing the history of the guild, Pollard provides an official programme, and describes the events and entertainment which included processions, brass band contest and a cyclists meet. In a brown cloth binding with a gilt Preston guild crest and County Palatine of Lancaster crest to the front board. Externally, generally smart. Lightly rubbed to the boards, with some minor wear to the extremities. A little bumped with a couple of small closed tears in the cloth to the head and tail of the spine. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are bright, with light scattered foxing throughout. Very Good.…