A fellmonger was a dealer in hides or skins, particularly sheepskins, who might also prepare skins for tanning. The name is derived from the Old English ‘fell’ meaning skins and ‘monger’ meaning dealer. Fellmongery is one of the oldest professions in the world and since ancient times, humans have used the skins of animals to clothe themselves, and for making domestic articles.[1]
Historically, fellmongers belonged to a guild or company which had its own rules and by-laws to regulate the quality of the skins, workmanship, treatment of apprentices and trading rights.[2]
- ^ Dorrington, Eric (January–February 2000). "Developing a Living History Character". Orders of the day. 32 (1). The Sealed Knot Ltd. Archived from the original on 22 February 2005. Retrieved 1 March 2010.
- ^ "Fellmongers Company - History and Heritage". The Company of Fellmongers of Richmond, Yorkshire. Archived from the original on 4 March 2012. Retrieved 1 March 2010.