Black Rod

The Usher of the Black Rod (often shortened to the Black Rod, and in some countries, formally known as the Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod if male or, Lady Usher of the Black Rod if female) is an official in the parliaments of several countries of the Commonwealth of Nations. The position originates in the House of Lords of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. Equivalent positions also exist in Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. The position is similar to one known as a serjeant-at-arms in other bodies. Origin The office was created in 1350 by royal letters patent, though the current title dates from 1522. The position was adopted by other members of the Commonwealth when they adopted the British Westminster system. The title is derived from the staff of office, an ebony staff topped with a golden lion, which is the main symbol of the office's authority. A ceremonial rod or staff is a common type of symbol indicating the authority of the office holder. Depictions of ancient authority figures in many cultures include such a rod (alternatively called a sceptre). Another early example was the fasces (literally a bound bundle of rods) carried by guards ("lictors") who accompanied certain high-level officials in the Roman Republic and later Empire.