Alderman

Alderman, a title derived from the Anglo-Saxon ealdorman, compounded of ealdor ('older') and man. Whether any definite and invariable functions were connected with the ancient rank of ealdorman does not seem to be very clearly ascertained. The term was generally applied to persons of high and hereditary distinction, such as princes, earls, and governors. Its special signification in the titles 'Alderman of all England' (Aldermannus totius Angliæ) and 'King's Alderman' (Aldermannus Regis) is not distinctly indicated. There were also aldermen of counties, hundreds, cities, boroughs, and castles. In modern times, aldermen are officers invested with certain powers in the municipal corporations of England, Wales, and Ireland, either as civil magistrates, or as assessors of the chief magistrates in cities and towns corporate. The corresponding title in Scotland is Bailie. The London Court of Aldermen consists of twenty-six aldermen, including the Lord Mayor. The name is also now given to the superior county councillors, elected by the councillors, under the Local Government Act of 1888.