The granting of the Honorary Freedom (or Freedom Honoris Causa) of the City of London is extremely rare and only generally awarded today to Royalty, Heads of State or to figures of genuine global standing. It is the highest honour which is in the power of the City of London to bestow on someone and usually takes place in Guildhall in the presence of the Common Council and with Lord Mayor, Sheriffs and Aldermen present, along with invited guests. The most recent recipient after a gap of some 11 years was Archbishop Desmond Tutu with the ceremony taking place at Mansion House on 25 November 2013. Nelson Mandela received the same honour as President of South Africa in 1996. The presentation on these occasions is made by the Chamberlain of London, and is often followed by a Guildhall or Mansion House banquet. The first historically to be so honoured was William Pitt the Elder in 1757. For many years, it was the custom to present the Freedom in specially commissioned and unique gold or silver caskets, the design of which was inspired by the background and the achievements of the individual to which it was given. More normal today would be a presentation of a scroll in an inscribed box.[citation needed]
The Freedom of the City of London
Whilst the Honorary Freedom is indeed a recognition of lifetime achievement or high international standing, the Freedom of the City of London is open to a much wider section of society, and include many who have achieved success, recognition or celebrity in their chosen field. Whilst undoubtedly a privilege, strict instructions are given that the Freedom of the City of London should not be presented to others as being an honour or award. The Freedom of the City of London can be gained through membership of a livery company or by direct application supported by a suitably qualified proposer and seconder. About 1800 Freemen are admitted each year by the Clerk to the Chamberlain of the City of London at a simple but formal ceremony at Guildhall to which friends and family can accompany. A certificate is presented which will be framed on request for a small payment.
There is a long-standing tradition of the City admitting women to the Freedom. Although nowadays usually called Freemen as well, the historically correct way of referring to them is: Free Sisters.
The mixed list below contains just some of the names of people who have received the Freedom or Honorary Freedom over the years:
John Francis Scott (16 Oct 1796 - 16 Dec 1854)(Awarded 1823) - Son of Warrant Officer John Scott R.N., Purser, Secretary & close friend to Viscount Admiral Horatio Nelson. Warrant Officer Scott was killed on the 21 Oct 1805 whilst standing next to Admiral Nelson on the deck of the HMS Victory during the Battle of Trafalgar[url=http://garypatton.net/scott_family/scott.htm]
Dr. Zenobia Nadirshaw (Awarded on 16 November 2017) - She has been a practicing psychologist for 40 years. She has also served as Governor of London Metropolitan University, as an advisor to the minister of Health and as Trustee of three charitable organizations.
Noel Byrne (Awarded on 20th December 2017) - A dedicated servant to the City and its people.
^"Eisenhower to get honor". The New York Times. 1945-06-10.
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London's Roll of Fame: Being Complimentary Notes and Addresses from the City of London, on Presentation of the Honorary Freedom of that City, and on Other Occasions, to Royal Personages, Statesmen etc. The City of London Corporation, Benjamin Scott (ed.), 1884