Fan Makers' Selection Court Dinner
18th October 2018The history of the Fan Makers dates back to 1709 when it was granted a Royal Charter by Queen Anne, a charter that incorporated the 'Cities of London and Westminster and twenty miles round the same.'. The business then and for much of its history was focused on handheld fans and upon arrival at Skinners Hall for the Company's Selection Court Dinner, the guests were greeted by a wonderful display of antique fans in an array of materials and different forms of exquisite decoration. However, in modern times, the Fan Makers are more about the industrial applications of fans and there is a prominent link to the aviation industry. Close to the display of handheld fans was large, shining fan blade; a component from a state-of-the-art Rolls Royce aircraft engine. The coat of arms of the Company, granted in 1991, incorporates both types of fan, bringing together its history and its relevance to modern life.
The Master Fan Maker, Dr. Michael Smith, himself an aviation industry man, presided over a very fine dinner with every comfort and courtesy extended to the guests. The speeches were engaging and provided great insight into the Company and its members, all capped by a riveting speech by Principal Guest Sir Michael Arthur, a former British diplomat and current President of Boeing Europe. Bravo!