Plans for Orange museums unveiled
THE Orange Order has launched innovative plans to develop two new museums, incorporating the founding place of the Institution.
The 4 million project would see interpretive centres at the organisation’s headquarters in east Belfast and at Sloan’s House in Loughgall.
Plans are at an advanced stage with an application for the iconic proposal already submitted to a European Funding Programme along with a detailed business plan.
The plans were unveiled to politicians, opinion formers, historians and other interested parties at a recent event in Schomberg House.
“This is without doubt one of the most significant projects ever undertaken by the Orange Order,” said the Order’s director of services, Dr David Hume.
“We know there is a massive appetite from all sections of the community about our history and these interpretive centres will become the focal point for anyone who has a sense of history and tradition and wants to learn more.”
Museum consultants from London have visited both sites and produced detailed plans to enhance the outstanding collection of artefacts and documents which is held by the Order.
Their suggestions include the re-creation of a one-third replica model of the sculpture of King William on Clifton Street Orange Hall in Belfast as a focal point for the display area at Schomberg House.
An early 20th century Orange hall would also be created inside the building and would be utilised as the entrance to a new dedicated museum area as well as an educational resource for school and community visits, and a location for lodge meetings.
At Loughgall, there are plans for a display which will recreate the signing of the first Orange Lodge warrants in 1795.
The detailed plans have received the backing of over 100 lodges, who also signalled their intention to contribute material to the centres.
Dr Hume added: “It is a central plank of the submission that the Orange Order has a key role in society and that unless there is engagement with the Order from the wider community, there will continue to be misunderstandings leading to conflict and lack of respect for difference cultures.
“The Orange interpretive centres proposal gives the opportunity for that understanding to develop.”
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Saturday 11 February 2012
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