Marching Orangemen by the Hundreds

Day 31, Saturday, July 6.

Glasgow. Steps 24076

Heard about the ‘famous’ Barras Market only open on weekends where all sorts of things can be found. Hoped to find an antique figure to replace that broken ceramic cherub.

Walked there to see what it was about. What it was - was a filthy bad flea market. Probably full of fleas, along with all Junk. Seedy side of life in Glasgow.

This homeless person was fortunate to have a tent.

War Memorial.

Pre-parade

While walking (gimping along) back to city center realized there were police officers on every corner in pairs, and the street was closed off. Enquired of one set what was happening. Parade route that would be starting in George Square.

Baby pram with fur.

Worked my way towards the Square and found it filled with people under the statue of Sir Walter Scott, gathered around a priest. There were also bagpipes, drummers, flutes. Waited. It seemed the priest was holding a religious send off complete with long prayers, long moments of silence to remember those lost. Flags were lowered during part of the ceremony. This went on for over half an hour that I was there for.

“God Save the Queen” was played and everyone was silent.

Meanwhile drumming could be heard coming in from all directions. Learned that the Legions came marching in from at least 6 directions and formed up on the side streets.

Wasn’t sure in the beginning if it was a protest, riot, or something good. Turns out it was good.

They were assembling to remember the Battle of Boyne in 1690. Which took place between King James VII of England/James II of Scotland and Ireland and the Dutch Prince William of Orange. It was a turning point in the history of Protestantism.

In the middle of the parade a number of police vehicles were positioned. This one had cameras scanning the people. The others were vans with police in every seat facing every direction watching for trouble.

In Ireland they celebrate on the 12th of July - Gary, Kim, and Claire. Bonfires!!!

The Orange Walk is the largest parade of the year. The term ‘walk’ also refers to demonstrations. This is considered a sacred day and often there has been violence. Today on the news 8 were arrested for minor disorders, but nothing scary.

Orange Walk closed more than 30 roads in Glasgow from 9 am - 4 pm.

The Orange Order was founded in 1795 in County Armagh.

The marching typically is held on the Saturday before the 12th of July. Those marching are from the various Legions.

Lots of orange colored clothing. Lots of blue. Lots of orange and white flags. Lots of the blue William of Orange flags. Lots of spectators wearing flags.

I took lots of videos.

Sir Walter Scott.

The bands marched by at a steady pace, drumming and ‘flute-ing’ for over an hour. My ears were ringing! And there was not one piece of candy distributed. No food vendors!

Heavy heavy police presence marching along with the Legions listening to their ear buds, talking into microphones, and constantly scanning the crowds.

I departed after an hour and they were still coming up the street. Asked an officer how many Legion groups participated and his reply was hundreds. I can believe that. Each group had at least 30/40 band members, and women accompanying them wearing matching outfits and hats.

Went to the Museum of Modern Art next. MOMA.

It was okay. Found the building architecturally more interesting. It began as a private home of a wealth merchant.

There were two paintings by Beryl Cook whose work I had seen in London. I have two books of her paintings. Fun to recognize a rather unknown artist that I knew.

Ceramic piece by Aaron Angell that seemed similar to what I have made in the past. Personally I think mine are better.

Spent the rest of the day just wandering about Glasgow and soaking up city life. It has grown on me. Although I prefer the wilds of the Highlands, which are not that far away, but a totally different Everything.