The Feltmakers, or makers of felt hats, were incorporated by letters patent granted by James I in 1604.
The company gradually lost its role as a trade association for felt hat makers, due to both advancements in technology and the increased popularity of silk hats.
Its motto is Decus Et Tutamen, a Latin phrase taken from Virgil meaning An Ornament and a Safeguard.
(The phrase also appears around the milled edge of certain pound coins.)
The company's Upper Warden is Simon Millar.