337th Anniversary of the Shutting of the Gates

On Saturday 6^th December the Associated Clubs of the Apprentice Boys of Derry Commemorated the 337^th Anniversary of the Shutting of the Gates, one the two most important days in the Association’s Calendar.

Governor of the Associated Clubs of the Apprentice Boys of Derry commented:

“There was a tremendous turnout of Apprentice Boys today who honoured the Brave 13 for the courage and determination in Shutting the Gates of Londonderry 337 years ago. We must never forget to remember, and in such a way that retains the memory of the Siege for current and future generations.”

“The Association has been delighted to have welcomed many new Members to our historic organisation this past year. Many newly Made members were walking for the first time in the city this weekend. We like to thank all Parent and Branch Clubs and their engaged bands for making this a memorable day.”

“Finally, we were very thankful that there was no storm this year, and that the effigy of Lundy was duly burned as is tradition.”

General Secretary, David Hoey added: “The Association would like to offer a special thanks to our Marshals for their sterling work in keeping the parade and day moving. Thanks too to the PSNI for keeping the traffic flowing and assuring no issues were allowed to spoil the day, and for the City Centre Initiative for assisting in the run up to the day.”

“Our thanks go to all in the Cathedral who assisted with today’s Service of Thanksgiving, and managed the huge numbers attending the Service today, with standing room only. Thanks to Rev. Joseph Andrews, the Coleriane Branch Browning Club Chaplain for delivering the address. It would be remiss not to extend an enormous thank-you to the Very Reverend Raymond Stewart, Dean of Derry, who officiated at his final Service of Thanksgiving for the Shutting of the Gates before his retirement at the end of the year. His kindness, guidance and advice have been much appreciated over his term as Dean. On behalf of the Association, thank you Dean Stewart.”

The 337th Anniversary of the Shutting of the Gates took place on Saturday 6th December. The weekend started on the Friday evening with firing the cannon on the Walls one and three times (13), following by touching the historic gates, this year's traditions being undertaken by the Browning Parent Club. Central to the day was the Service of Thanksgiving in St. Columbs Cathedral. The day concluded with the burning of an effigy of Lundy the Traitor before Branch Clubs departed at the end of the afternoon.