Trinity House
a name borne by five maritime societies of Great Britain or most of them, were originally partly situated in London, Hull, Newcastle-onor most of them, were originally partly religious and and partly secular establishby seamen, their chief ments founded b assistance and the care of aged and in- firm seamen. From the 14th century onoriginal objects being probably mutual firm seamen. From the 14th century onward various public duties and privileges were assigned to them by royal charters or acts of Parliament, such as providing lighthouses, buoying channels, and licensing pilots; and powers were given to them to levy dues on shipping or cargoes. With one important exception, these duties and powers have been reduced or withdrawn. Dundee House is now only a benefit society. Leith retains its public duties as a pilotage authority, as also do Newcastle and Hull, while the last also looks after the lighthouses and tinue to give pensions, or homes and pensions, to members, and some assistance to destitute seafarers.