Seal of Cause
A Seal of Clause is a charter granted to a group of tradesmen by a town or burgh.
Edinburgh granted these Seals of Clause:
| Seal of Clause to | Occupation | Date granted |
| Baxters | Bakers | 1456 |
| Bonnet makers | 1473 | |
| Skinners | 1474 | |
| Masons & Wrights | 1475 | |
| Wobsters | Weavers | 1476 |
| Hammermen | Blacksmiths, etc. | 1483 |
| Fleshers | Butchers | 1488 |
| Coopers | Barrel makers | 1489 |
| Cordiners | Shoemakers & Leather workers |
1510 |
These incorporations can be thought of as being early trade unions. (See "Cracking the Freemasons Code" by Cooper page 11)