Fonds AFC88 - Thorndale Loyal Orange Lodge #248 fonds

The Orange Order is a Protestant Christian fraternal organization, formed in Ireland in 1795 in honour of William of Orange's 1690 victory at the Battle of the Boyne. The Grand Lodge of British North America was founded in Brockville, Ontario in 1830, although there is evidence that Orangemen were active in Canada during the War of 1812.

According to the constitution of Canada's Loyal Orange Association, an applicant must be an observant Protestant Christian and be loyal to Queen and country. Members are called to be kind to others and to assist in benevolent activities within the community.

In Canada, lodges are organized within individual communities, with local district lodges, county lodges, and regional lodges forming a link to the Grand Lodge of British North America. Members of the Loyal Orange Association often strive to rise in the Biblically-based Degree system, from Orange Degree (initiation) to Blue Degree, Royal Arch Purple Degree, and Scarlet Degree. Degrees are conferred after application and advanced study. Members of the Orange Order celebrate the Battle of the Boyne every July 12, often marching in parades and playing in bands.

Thorndale Loyal Orange Lodge #248 was founded as West Nissouri Loyal Orange Lodge in 1839. A new warrant was issued on April 20, 1850. Meetings were held in the Orange Lodge building at 237 King Street in Thorndale.

Thorndale Lodge was declared dormant on June 5, 1980 and was revived three months later.