In celebration of the 400th anniversary of Jens Bang’s Stone House, Christian IV's Guild organized two jubilee inductions—at both events, more than forty people became new members of Christian IV’s Guild.

Both inductions started with a bang, as the Aalborg Cannon Guild saluted the “Danish Signal” with three consecutive shots that echoed across Nytorv. All guests and Benchers were commanded outside Jens Bang’s Stone House to witness this, and if anyone was not awake, they certainly were after that. The sound of the joyful salutes carried down into the cellar, where there was a lively and cheerful atmosphere as the Chief Bencher and Benchers entered the rooms. As usual, the induction began with the Toastmaster encouraging a toast among the Benchers and guests—though the guests had nothing in their glasses and could only watch as the Benchers refreshed themselves.

The Chief Bencher welcomed everyone and briefly spoke about the occasion, highlighting the 400th anniversary of the Stone House and then how the Guild was formed during World War II, now having occupied the Stone House for eighty-two of those four hundred years.

Following this, the Benchers were introduced to the guests, who were then educated on the Guild’s history and informed about its laws and regulations before finally being called to the main table for their formal induction.

Afterward, the guests were given a chance to get a feel for the city of Aalborg with a tour, this time along an alternative route for practical reasons.

It was checked that the key provided for the door to the Secret Passage worked, and once everyone was gathered back in the cellar, they were allowed to taste the ancient divine drink, mead.

Then it was time for the Guild’s jubilee brunch, and especially to taste the “potato juice,” consisting of Rød Aalborg. Afterward, the Guild’s two-man band entertained the guests, and they sang beautiful songs about community and the value of togetherness.

The importance of this to the Guild is emphasized by the fact that the Guild has inducted more than 8,000 people from 105 nations over the years.

Everything comes to an end, including the good times at such an induction.

We are pleased to congratulate Jens Bang’s Stone House on its 400th anniversary.

See the pictures here