The Trades of Dundee
The Nine Incorporated Trades of Dundee
The Guildry of Dundee has historically shared a close and complementary relationship with the Nine Incorporated Trades of Dundee.
While the Guildry represented the interests of merchants and burgesses, the Nine Trades focussed on the skilled craftsmen and artisans of the city. Together, they formed the backbone of Dundee’s civic and economic life, with the Guildry overseeing trade and commerce and the Trades ensuring the quality and standards of craftsmanship.
This collaboration fostered a balanced governance of the city’s affairs, with both groups contributing to the regulation, development, and prosperity of Dundee over the centuries. The partnership between the Guildry and the Nine Trades has been integral in shaping the city’s identity, ensuring that both commerce and craft thrived in tandem.
The Three United Trades of Dundee
The Three United Trades of Dundee represent the city’s historic “building trades,” a vital group whose legacy is etched into the very fabric of Dundee.
Without the skilled work of these trades, the architectural heritage and much of Dundee’s history might never have taken shape.
Comprised of masons, wrights (joiners), and slaters, these tradespeople were often itinerant, moving where work was available, both within and beyond the city walls. Although each trade had its own distinct practices and traditions, they united in 1741 to form what is now known as The Three United Trades. Today, while their role is largely ceremonial, the remaining members are deeply committed to preserving the traditions and heritage of this once-essential organisation, ensuring its legacy continues to be honoured by future generations.