While Royal Sovereign LOL 247 was formed in 1866, the earliest Attendance ! Roll Book in existence dates back to 1905 and perusal of this book shows that monthly dues at the time were only 6d (a tanner or 2'/2p) per month. The book also shows the record of bereavements, numbers attending each Lodge meeting and the turnout at the 12th July Parades. On formation in 1905, we had 17 members, which by 1919 had increased to 74. Addresses in the book show the shift in the Protestant population over the years, especially from 1912.

Eight of our members enlisted in 1915 and 2 of those were killed in action, some returned with bravery medals and some, of course, with war wounds. Bro. William Hunter PM (a long time Inside Tyler of No. 2 District) has been a stalwart member for over 60 years - he is at present in poor health as is his wife - but still finds time to give assistance to LOL 247. Bro. James Corry PM has served 52 years with LOL 247 and we still see him on 12th July at Belfast Orange Hall, Clifton Street and when able he joins the parade for part of the way, both there and back. The late Bro. James Nesbitt PM, who was a well-known Officer in the RUG, was also well known in the field of athletics and was a competitor in the 1936 Olympic Games held in Germany.

He threw the discus for Great Britain / Northern Ireland in front of the tyrant Adolf Hitler. Later in life Jim Nesbitt trained many young athletes, some of whom also competed in the Commonwealth and Olympic Games. Even in his eighties he was still available to help and advise any young athletes who sought his guidance. His funeral in 1992 was attended by some of the finest sports people of the past and present. Jim can best be pictured carrying the banner for 247 like it was a lollipop stick ! His strength was fantastic, he and his partner would often take the banner to the field and back.

In the late 1960s, LOL 247 was well known for its turnout on the 12th July, dressed in dark suits and wearing maroon dickey bows. On one occasion we had over 70 on parade having been strengthened in number by Afron Lily LOL 247 who came from New Cumnock. It is notable that the celebrations of 200 years of Orangeism in Scotland were held in Cumnock in September 1998.

In conclusion to these notes, let us state that 'we are not going away' and our books are open for new and young members to take up the cause. They will be welcomed into a happy, prosperous and loyal Lodge.