Kendal Mayoralty

The feature that distinguishes Kendal from most other Parish Councils in Cumbria is the office of Town Mayor. Kendal has had a first Citizen (originally known as the Alderman) since 1575 during the reign of Elizabeth I. The title of Mayor was bestowed by Charles I in 1636 and there have been 271 separate holders of the office up to Clare Feeney-Johnson our current Mayor.

Some of the famous Kendal names which appear on the Mayoral roll of honour include, Bindloss ( for the first time in 1579 and the last in 1894), Sleddall, Birkett, Strickland, Hadwen, Miller, Mackereth, Braithwaite, Dobson, Maude, Bradshaw, Webster (Kendal’s most famous architect), Wakefield, Gilkes and Somervell (of K shoes).

The people of Kendal purchased the Mayor’s chain in 1875 to celebrate the tercentenary of the Royal Charter, which created the office.

On ceremonial occasions the Mayor, is accompanied by the Sword Bearer and two Mace Bearers. The Sword Bearer carries the sword presented to the town by Charlles II, which is one of only 20 ever given to a town by the Monarch. The Mace Bearers (originally known as Sergeants of Mace) carry the maces made in 1647/8.

Should you wish to visit the Mayor’s Parlour and to hear about the history of Kendal and to see the town’s regalia and some of the works of art, we can cater for up to 20 people to attend at any one time. Please contact us to make an appointment.