|
Factfile on Lodge
Name: York L.O.L. No. 145
Founded: 1796
W.M. of Lodge: Dr. James Laird
Location: Belfast Orange Hall, Clifton Street
York L.O.L. No. 145 has the distinction of being one of the
oldest working Lodges in Belfast, having been formed in 1796
from the ranks of the York Fencible Regiment. At that turbulent
time, the United Irishmen were threatening the stability of
the country and regiments were sent from England and Scotland
to maintain order.
When the United Irish revolt occurred in 1798, Orangemen
joined with the regular militia and regiments in endeavouring
to defeat the insurgents.
It was during this period that Royal York Independent L.O.L.
No. 145 was formed, and first met in Frederick Street, Belfast.
Members of the Lodge are proud that this took place four years
before a Grand Lodge of Ireland was formed (hence the original
term 'Independent' in their title). The word Royal was used
as the original warrant was signed by Prince Ernest, fifth
son of George III.
The Prince became Duke of Cumberland and Teviotdale, and
Earl of Armagh and, in 1837, King of Hanover. In 1828 he had
been Imperial Grand Master of the Orange Institution.
York Lodge does not rest on such historical laurels, however,
as those who viewed the recent Belfast Twelfth parade will
know. For the Lodge literally found it was plain sailing to
the field, given the large model of an 18th century emigrant
ship which formed a unique float. The Ulster- Scots float
was the brainchild of the Lodge and helped add a touch of
unique colour to the annual Twelfth parade.
The Lodge is also distinctive in that it carries a flag and
not a banner (looking back to the old military tradition)
and members wear traditional sashes. Among the past members
have been notables such as Sir Joseph Davidson, while current
membership includes Lord Laird of Artigarvan and Lord Rogan
of Lower Iveagh, as well as Mervyn Bishop, Grand Treasurer
of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland.
The oldest and longest serving member of the Lodge is Bro.
John Harcourt, who has been a member for over 50 years, while
youngest member is Bro. Graham Barton.
Brother Val Young highlights that the Lodge has sat in various
locations over the years, including the Apprentice Boys of
Derry Memorial Hall in Londonderry, the old Ulster Volunteer
Force Hospital in East Belfast, and Dan Winter's cottage in
Loughgall, not to mention the House of Lords in London - quite
an impressive list!
|
