The original Orange Association was founded at Exeter in November 1688.

An Ulster Protestant society was founded in 1795 to combat the United Irishmen and the peasant secret societies, a revival of the Orange Institution [1688] formed in support of William (III) of Orange, the anniversary of whose victory over the Irish at the Boyne [1690], is celebrated by Orangemen on July 12th.

Throughout the 18th century, Orangeism was perpetuated through a loose confederation of Orange societies and clubs. In Ulster in the 1790s, Orangeism adopted the lodge system, with an associated organisation and structure, and this it has kept with very little change until the present day.

The change was undertaken under the pressure of a Roman Catholic terrorist campaign, which caused the Orangemen to adopt a tighter and more cohesive organisational structure. When the continuing unrest led to open rebellion in 1798, the Orangemen enrolled in the Yeomanry almost to a man and played a major part in the defeat of the rebels.

An Orangeman should be a Protestant in reality and truth, not merely by profession or education; and should be distinguished by sincere love and veneration for his Almighty Creator, steadfast faith in the Saviour of the world, the only Mediator, between God and Men; humble reliance on the guidance and purifying power of the Holy Spirit