The Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod, generally shortened to just Black Rod, is an official in the parliaments of several Commonwealth countries. The position originates in the House of Lords of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. His equivalent in the House of Commons is the Serjeant at Arms.
Read more about Black Rod: Origin, Gentlemen Ushers of The Black Rod in Ireland, Other UK Ushers, Black Rod in Other Commonwealth Countries
Famous quotes containing the words black and/or rod:
“A little black thing among the snow
Crying “’weep, ‘weep,” in notes of woe!
“Where are thy father & mother? say?”
“They are both gone up to the church to pray.”
—William Blake (1757–1827)
“Alas,
For the tireless heart within the little
Lady with rod that made them rise
From their noon apple-dreams, and scuttle
Goose-fashion under the skies!”
—John Crowe Ransom (1888–1974)