Chapter Chat: Countdown for Royal Black Institution's Scarva Sham Fight in final stages

Scarva is renowned for hosting the biggest one-day event, at a single location, anywhere in Northern Ireland.

The mock battle between rival monarchs William and James and the large-scale procession through Scarva – organised by Sir Knight Alfred Buller Memorial RBP 1000 – is firmly established as a unique cultural festival.

Rev William Anderson, the institution’s Sovereign Grand Master, says: “The procession and Sham Fight at Scarva hold a special place in the parading calendar.

“It is a wonderful family occasion.

“As a Christian-based organisation, the service of public worship is extremely important to our members.

“The parade to the field, with preceptories carrying their colourful banners portraying biblical scenes, is a unique spectacle of music and pageantry.”

Rev Anderson praised the organising committee – members of Scarva’s RBP 1000 – “for their dedication, commitment and professionalism in maintaining the only re-enactment of its kind on these islands”.

The behind-the-scenes work has been ongoing for many months, but it’s a labour of love for the Sham Fight organisers.

Sandy Heak, who chairs the committee, says their aim is “to plan an amazing event”.

“Scarva is unique, drawing visitors from near and far, and our job is to organise a day to remember.

“You have the fantastic spectacle of the Sham Fight, the wonderful parade, and the incredible music from a selection of top bands.”

The grounds of Scarvagh Demesne will once again come alive to the dramatic re-enactment of scenes from the Battle of the Boyne.

John Adair and Colin Cairns will take on their customary roles of monarchs William and James, accompanied by performers in period costume portraying troops of the Williamite and Jacobite armies.

John has been playing ‘King Billy’ for around 30 years and does not believe there will be any change in his fortune during this encounter.

“When the dust settles over the battlefield, there will be only one winner,” he laughs.

“The Scarva preceptory is very proud to maintain the tradition of the Sham fight,” he adds.

“It’s a day of historical significance, and all the performers do all in their power to deliver an exciting performance that can be enjoyed by everyone.”

John is looking forward to a “terrific response” from the crowd as the rival kings enter the demesne, dressed in the traditional costumes of the late 17th century.

As the Williamites, in red and white, and the Jacobite group, in green and white, come face to face, a mighty roar will go up ahead of the mock battle.

The demesne will echo to the sound of blank shots from musket fire and the clash of swords as the entertaining spectacle plays out.

The Sham Fight will take place after a grand parade of up to 4,000 members of the Royal Black, and featuring a variety of bands, comprising flute, accordion, pipe, brass, and silver.

The parade will comprise Royal Black preceptories from Portadown, Markethill, Tandragee, Banbridge, Newry, Rathfriland, Mourne and lower Iveagh (Dromore).

The mile-long procession will stream through the village’s spectator-filled main street to Scarvagh House, passing the centuries-old oak and chestnut trees in the demesne.

Legend has it that King William tied his horse to one of the Spanish chestnut trees as he spent the night encamped at Scarva in June 1690 before moving on to the Boyne.

The beautiful banners portray Old Testament scenes, such as David at the Brook, the Burning Bush, and Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden.

The procession will leave the assembly field on the Gilford Road at 11.15am and make its way to the demesne.

The Sham Fight is due to start at 1.30pm, with the religious service scheduled for 2pm.

Soprano Clara Wilson, who has performed in venues such as the Ulster Hall, Waterfront Hall and Grand Opera House, will perform during the platform proceedings.

Country music star Warren Smyth will entertain visitors to the event in the early part of the day.

Caption:

Looking the part: Performers portraying the Williamite and Jacobite armies at Scarvagh House in July 2022.

Photo: Graham Baalham-Curry