An Orangeman on Parade

There are a number of items which people tend to associate with an "Orangeman", the sash, white gloves, umbrella and 'bowler hat'. Of these only the sash is an actual requirement.

In keeping with the Ulster Protestant ethos an Orangeman on parade tends to dress in his best suit and the gloves, hat and umbrella are really only accessories.

The sash, or more usually today, the collarette is Orange in honour of King William III, Prince of Orange, and is worn either as a sash diagonally across the shoulder and chest and returned, or as a collarette around both shoulders in a 'v' shape.

Whichever is chosen they will have identifiable ensignia such as the number of the Lodge the member belongs to, any office he holds in that Lodge and various symbols which depict his faith and heritage, such as the Open Bible.

The 'bowler hat' is associated with the Orange Order in the minds of many but it has no real significance. Its popularity rose when such hats were worn by the well dressed gentlemen many years ago and the tradition was retained. Today however the 'bowler' is worn by a minority of members.

The white gloves are again simply an accessory often worn by entire Lodges on parade. The umbrella is merely a practical consideration for any outdoor gathering in Ulster when rain is probably never far away!

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