Tynwald

Could a parliament truly be older than a thousand years? Here at Tynwald, the Isle of Man’s parliament, that very claim rings out. Tynwald boasts a history stretching back over a millennium, earning it the title of the oldest continuous parliament in the world. The name itself, Tynwald, whispers tales of Viking gatherings. Derived from the Old Norse “thingvollr,” meaning assembly field, it evokes images of Norse settlers meeting under the open sky to discuss laws and settle disputes. Tynwald Hill, a four-tiered mound in St John’s, stands as a testament to this ancient tradition. Each year, on Tynwald Day, usually July 5th, this very spot becomes the stage for a unique ceremony. Imagine the scene: a representative of the British monarch presiding, parliament members gathered, and the ancient laws of the island, promulgated in both Manx and English, echoing in the air. This isn’t the only place where Tynwald’s presence is felt. The parliament also meets in Douglas, in the Legislative Buildings, for its more regular sessions. While the outdoor ceremony at Tynwald Hill is steeped in tradition, the Douglas meetings address the pressing matters of modern governance. Tynwald is made up of two branches: the House of Keys and the Legislative Council. The House of Keys, the directly elected branch, traces its roots back to ancient times. The word “Keys” is thought to come from the Manx term for “the four and twenty,” referring to its original 24 members. Each represented one of the six “sheadings,” the ancient Norse divisions of the island. Originally a body for declaring and interpreting common law, the Keys evolved into lawmakers around 1610. Tynwald’s power extended to taxation in 1737, mirroring the constitutional practices of Great Britain. However, this power was short-lived. After the Isle of Man came under British rule in 1765, the British Crown assumed control of taxation. Tynwald persevered. The House of Keys Election Act of 1866 marked a turning point. This act shifted Tynwald’s judicial function to a separate court, solidifying its role as a legislative body. Tynwald has not remained untouched by the passage of time. Women gained the right to stand for election to the House of Keys in 1919, with Marion Shimmin becoming the first woman elected in 1933. Even now, discussions about further reforms continue, reflecting Tynwald’s ongoing evolution. As you stand here, considering the echoes of Viking voices and the whispers of centuries past, Tynwald stands as more than just a parliament. It is a living embodiment of Manx identity, a testament to the enduring power of tradition, and a symbol of the island’s unique history.