Freeholder's Lists are usually thought of listing only rich persons, however, people could also become Freeholders in a variety of ways.
The status of a freeman could be gained in a number of ways, firstly by inheritance from a father, husband or mother, secondly by completing an apprenticeship and thirdly by invite from an existing member and then accepted by the ruling body. Women had the right to pass on their fathers' membership to their husband and a widow could pass her husbands' membership to her sons. By the 18th century membership of a guild became possible upon payment of a fee (redemption) or through the father's membership (patrimony). Guilds also operated outside of London.
Also consider looking for the women and juvenile branches of a friendly society. The name of the organisation did not necessarily indicate the occupation of its members
http://www.genguide.co.uk/source/guilds-freedoms-amp-freemens-or-burges…
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