Royal Black Institution

The Royal Black Institution, also known as the Royal Black Preceptory, the Imperial Grand Black Chapter Of The British Commonwealth, or simply as the Black Institution, is a Protestant fraternal society.

History

It was formed in Ireland in 1797, two years after the formation of the Orange Order in Daniel Winter's cottage, Loughgall, County Armagh.

The society is formed from Orangemen and can be seen as a progression of that Order although they are separate institutions. Anyone wishing to be admitted to the Royal Black Institution must first become a member of an Orange Order Lodge, and many are members of both.

The Royal Black is often referred to as "the senior of the loyal orders."

Organisation and events

Its headquarters are in Lurgan, County Armagh. Members refer to each other as "Sir Knight", whereas in the Orange Order members are referred to as "Brother" or "Brethren". The RBI claim that their basis is the promotion of scripture and the principles of the Protestant Reformation. However, this is contested by people who suggest that the rituals are not biblical. It has preceptories throughout the world, mainly in the major English speaking countries, and is particularly strong in Newfoundland.