The Druid Order
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The Druid Order is the current name of a group started by John Toland the Irish Philosopher in 1717. Originally called An Druidh Uileach Braithreachas (ADUB), The Druid Circle of the Universal Bond.
[edit] History
No written records of the events of 1716 and 1717 occur until much later and these are documented in various places both in Druid Order literatue and some of Philip Carr-Gomm's books, notably "The Druid Renaissance".
In 1716 on the day of the Autumn Equinox at Primrose Hill, London John Toland called for Druids to meet at the Apple Tavern, Covent Garden, London a year and a day later.
On the 22nd September 1717 the meeting took place with representatives from London, York, Oxford, Wales, Cornwall, The Isle of Man, Scotland, Anglesey, Ireland and Brittany. From this meeting the An Druidh Uileach Braithreachas (ADUB) The Druid Circle of the Universal Bond was formed.
Several people attempt to take the history back beyond 1717 by linking the Order to the Mount Haemus Grove of 1245 and beyond including the Order's own literature and the previously mentioned book "The Druid Renaissance".
This group was the start of what is generally called neo-druidism and most druid groups trace their lineage back to this one. Although certain lineages such as the one by started by Iolo Morganwg which is based on the Welsh family traditions seem to be inspired by the neo-druidism movement rather than a direct off-shoot of it.
Off-shoot groups are a regular occurrence throughout the history of the Order and this is generally seen as natural thing with groups of members going off to explore and develop their own particular perspective. The biggest off-shoot group was the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids which is the biggest Druid group in Europe.
The Order has generally gone about its business in private with the main aim being the self-development of its members(known as companions).
[edit] Activities
The main aim is development of the self with the emphasis on being rather than intellectual learning. This is one reason why the factual history of Druidism is not taken to be important by members. Students are encouraged not to believe anything they cannot verify for themselves. In meetings it is encouraged that you apply the teachings rather than just think about them and meditation is a key activity. The material is taken from many sources including the Celtic, Greek, Hebrew, Egyptian and Indian traditions. Meetings are only open to members, but members of the public can partipate in Public Meetings which have similar structure.
The other Public activity is the three Public Ceremonies. The Spring Equinox Ceremony takes place at Tower Hill in London, the Summer Solstice at Stonehenge and the Autumn Equinox at Primrose Hill in London. Members of the Public can partipate in all these ceremonies though Stonehenge needs to be booked due to restrictions on access.
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