Knight of the Garter

Knight of the Garter. Membership in the Most Noble Order of the Garter, the oldest and most senior Order of chivalry in the United Kingdom. Founded in 1348 by Edward III of England, its establishment is deeply entwined with the ideals of medieval knighthood and the Hundred Years' War. The Order's membership, limited to the Sovereign, the Prince of Wales, and 24 living Companions, represents the highest personal honour bestowed by the British monarch. Its annual ceremonies at Windsor Castle are a prominent feature of the British royal calendar.

History and establishment

The Order's foundation in 1348 is traditionally linked to a chivalric legend involving Edward III and the Countess of Salisbury, though most historians regard this as apocryphal. Its creation was more likely a strategic move to cement loyalty among his leading commanders during the Hundred Years' War, emulating the mythical Round Table of King Arthur. The name derives from the ceremonial blue garter worn by members, with its motto, "Honi soit qui mal y pense," possibly originating from an incident at a court ball. Early members included the king's son, Edward the Black Prince, and key military leaders who fought at battles like Crécy and Poitiers. The Order's chapel, St George's Chapel, was established as its spiritual home by the late 15th century under Edward IV.

Insignia and regalia

The insignia is elaborate and rich in symbolism, centered on a dark blue velvet garter bearing the Order's motto in gold letters, worn below the left knee. The principal star, worn on the left breast, is an eight-pointed silver badge featuring the cross of St George encircled by the garter. The collar, worn on ceremonial occasions, is made of alternating knots and Tudor roses encircling a pendant showing St George and the Dragon, known as the "Greater George." A lesser badge, the "Lesser George," is suspended from a sash worn over the left shoulder to the right hip. These regalia are returned to the Order upon a member's death, with historic pieces often displayed at the Royal Collection.

Appointment and membership

Appointment is the sole prerogative of the Sovereign, made without ministerial advice, and is typically a recognition of exceptional public service, military command, or direct service to the monarchy. The membership comprises the Sovereign, the Prince of Wales as Royal Knight, and 24 Knight and Lady Companions, along with supernumerary members including Royal Family members and foreign monarchs known as Stranger Knights. Notable appointments in the 20th and 21st centuries have included prime ministers like Winston Churchill, military figures such as Field Marshal Lord Slim, and senior public servants like The Lord Butler of Brockwell. Ladies were admitted as full members in 1987, with Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother being the first.

Ceremonial role and events

The Order's major ceremony is the annual Garter Day procession and service, usually held in June at Windsor Castle. The day begins with the Sovereign investing any new Companions in the Throne Room of Windsor Castle. Members, wearing full velvet robes and plumed hats, then process on foot through the grounds to a service at St George's Chapel. The procession is a significant public spectacle, watched by crowds along the route. During the service, new Companions are installed in their personal stalls within the chapel choir, each adorned with their heraldic banner, crest, and a brass plate.

Notable Knights of the Garter

Throughout its history, the Order has included many of the most prominent figures in British history. Early members were key commanders like John of Gaunt and Henry V. Later centuries saw statesmen such as Thomas Cromwell, Horatio Nelson, and the Duke of Wellington. In the modern era, appointments have included monarchs like Hirohito and Wilhelmina of the Netherlands, wartime leaders Winston Churchill and Bernard Montgomery, and influential figures such as Lucian Freud and The Baroness Manningham-Buller. The current Sovereign, Charles III, is the Order's Grand Master.