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"The freedom of the town and the freedom of the craft guilds were also closely linked, and it was difficult, and at some periods virtually impossible, for a man to set up as a master in his own craft or trade and take apprentices without first being admitted a freeman.

Until 1835, admission to freedom was fourfold.  As early as 1344 it was laid down that a man could claim admission: 
1. as the son of a freeman,
2. by serving at least seven years apprenticeship to a burgess,
3. by marrying the widow or daughter of a freeman, or
4. by redemption, ie by paying a large sum to purchase the privilege."


"The most interesting of these four ways is apprenticeship.  Since apprenticeship could lead to freedom, it was necessary for the Corporation to keep an accurate record.  Master and apprentice would come before the mayor and particulars of the apprenticeship indentures would be taken. "


"Many burgesses must have had the right to claim admission in two or more ways, for the sons of freemen would also serve an apprenticeship to their trade.  It was common for men to take up freedom shortly after completing their apprenticeship.  No-one could become a burgess until he was twenty one.

There was another important and interesting privilege attaching to the status of freeman.  Until the Reform Act of 1832, Bristol's two Members of Parliament were elected by the votes of the freeman of the City. "

... and I think he might have been a JP???