The Loyal Orange Association was one of many ethnic associations in Toronto. Representing mainly Irish Protestants it originated in the 1830s. Because of its roots in religious conflicts in Ireland, the Order manifested hostility to Catholics which sometimes led to riots and violence. This was not typical of most ethnic associations in Toronto. Nevertheless, the Orange Order provided its members with moral and financial support in times of need. Lodge brothers functioned like close family in difficult times. Although some lodges contained middle-class members, most Orangemen were working-class. The Order was especially strong in Toronto which was known as "the Belfast of Canada." Orange leadership overlapped with trade union leadership in Toronto and many rank and file unionists marched in the Orange Parade every July 12th. All ethnic groups in Toronto formed societies with similar benevolent functions.
These three items exemplify the Orange Order's belief in ritual and tradition. The Grand Lodge collar (ca. 1890) was worn for ritualistic ceremonies and in parades. This and other similar items of regalia were part of the pomp and ceremony of the Order. The parade badge would have been worn in the traditional July 12th parade to celebrate the anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne and also during the regular lodge meetings. Note the image here of the mounted King Billy (William of Orange), the victor at that battle. The final item is an induction certificate issued by the Order's only Toronto Temperance Lodge which added a belief in abstention from alcohol to the rest of the Orange Order's heritage. All of these items are very indicative of the richness and texture of the material culture which augmented the ideas, traditions, and beliefs which were held by working-class Orangemen in Toronto.
