The Apprentice Boys of Derry

I had the privilege and pleasure of chatting with Stuart Moore, an member of the Apprentice Boys of Derry as well as an active member of the Derry community, this week. Stuart was able to explain to me a little more about The Associated Clubs of the Apprentice Boys of Derry and what their organization values, as well as what his experience in the Apprentice Boys has meant to him. The Associated Clubs of the Apprentice Boys of Derry is an organization that seeks to maintain “the spirit of courage and liberty displayed by the Defenders of Londonderry in 1688-89,” (http://apprenticeboysofderry.org/about/4590560772). Right now the Association has around 10,000 members from around the world.

Many know Stuart from his work as a tour guide at the Siege Museum. The Siege Museum is just one of the ways that the Apprentice Boys give back to their community. As highlighted in their mission, remembering and educating about the Siege of Derry is an important component of their work (http://apprenticeboysofderry.org/about/4590560772). Right now, the museum is highlighting several fascinating displays and a short video about the history of the original 13 Apprentice Boys of Derry, what life was like during the Siege, and what the Association of the Apprentice Boys of Derry do today. Along with their displays, the museum features educational resources online (https://www.thesiegemuseum.org/learning-education). They also partner with the Free Museum of Derry and Tower Museum to offer integrated tours to school children to holistically educate about the complex history of Derry. Not only are programs like this promoting education, but they are also promoting conversation and peace in Derry.

Along with their work of education, The Association of the Apprentice Boys of Derry are involved in commemorative events, like the parade set on the day the walls of Derry were originally closed (December 18) and the day that the Siege was relieved (August 12). As Stuart highlighted, the Apprentice Boys are a social organization as much as a historical organization, and one of the values of the association is community which is built through frequent meetings, events, and attendance at special events like the parades.

The future of the Association and the Siege Museum of Derry seems bright. Membership to the organization continues to increase, and the Association is doing a lot of work to provide continued conversation and support for education in their community. According to Stuart, the Museum is planning to open several new exhibits in the future to continue to provide insight to those living in and touring Derry. They have also seen an increase in the number of visitors to the Museum.

Overall, this museum and Association are both important components to the Derry community, and their continued narrative and education are essential to the holistic view of the city of Derry. A big thank you to Stuart for sharing a little bit about the Apprentice Boys of Derry and his story!