Banners evolved from large flags which were common in the later 1800s. Their origins lie in the tradition of regimental colours, carried to identify and provide a rallying point for different units in battle. The military origins of the Orange Order meant that lodges adopted the carrying of colours when on parade. 

These traditionally carry mottoes, the name and location of the lodge and over time saw the addition of elaborate works of art. Tradition holds that King William is on the front, with the lodge symbolically still marching behind their king. However the reverse is very much up to the democratic decision of the lodge.

This year these banners will not be on parade leading lodges but instead we will showcase them in an online exhibition.

Watch and learn the meaning and message behind each banner and the stories of how they are made. Often as they are paraded each year spectators don’t have the time to study each banner as one follows fast upon another. So take your time this year as we show a selection of our lodges banners and build an exhibition which will not only tell the story of each lodge but build to tell the whole story of our faith, history and Orange story.