Lord Stanley as Hockey fans and Canadians know him, was also the mayor of Preston Guild, known as The Guild Mayor, which is a high honour, the role of the Guild Mayor is one of public prominence and dignity.

In November 1901, Frederick Stanley, now known as Lord Derby was elected Mayor of Preston for the following year, and took part in the 1902 Preston Guild. He later received the honorary freedom of the borough of Preston, with which his family had been associated for centuries.

Stanley was also at this time, the 16th Earl of Derby.