Freemasons mark 300th anniversary
LEICESTERSHIRE and Rutland Freemasons marked the 300th anniversary of the formation of the first grand lodge of England, by unveiling a commemorative blue plaque at its Masonic hall in Loughborough.
The plaque was unveiled on Saturday, July 15, 2017, and marked the anniversary of the first activity of freemasonry in the area.
On June 24, 1717, four lodges, which had existed for some time in London, formed the Grand Lodge of England which has continued to administer lodges across the country including the 76 lodges and 3000 members in Leicestershire and Rutland.
The first Masonic lodge in Loughborough was formed in 1835 and met at the King’s Head but unfortunately closed in 1853.
A new lodge, Howe and Charnwood Lodge, was formed in 1864 which also met at the King’s Head before moving to the town hall.
In 1956, the Masonic lodges in the town purchased the old adult school in Ashby Square which has contin- ued to serve as their meeting place.
Seven lodges meet at the hall today - making it one of the largest halls outside of Leicester.
The plaque was unveiled by the Provincial Grand Master of Leicestershire and Rutland, David Hagger and was supported by the Mayor of Charnwood Coun Pauline Ranson and a large number of members, family and friends.
David Hagger, said: “We are celebrating 300 years of freemasonry and the foresight and courage of our forebears to perceive and enhance our society over the centuries. If we continue to pursue our ideals of integrity, fairness and honesty, freemasonry will continue to flourish in Leicestershire and Rutland”
He added: “We’ll also be holding several public events throughout 2017 including opening the doors to our Masonic Halls during the Heritage Open Days for everyone. We hope this will lead to further interest and a better understanding of our historic fraternity.”