Bromley Local History Society
The HISTORY OF OUR LODGE
Compiled and written by
W. BRO. WILLIAM NEELD, L.G.R.
November, 1951.
With grateful acknowledgment to
W. Bro. 0. W. H. WRIGHT (late Secretary)
for Data from the Minutes, 1802-1920.
and
W. Bro. P. H. DIPPLE, L.G.R.
W. Bro. L. R. G. OXER, L.G.R.
for their helpful criticism.
One of the fascinating things about tracing history is the fact that, at any one point in it, the best in-formed and most far-seeing of its makers cannot know the destiny he is engaged in moulding.
The Members of our Lodge who held their Meetings at hostels around dock-land in London's East end, for all their devotion and assiduousness to the interests of the Lodge, had no vision that 150 years hence, the Meetings would be held in the finest building possessed by the Craft, namely the Headquarters of English Freemasonry.
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For several years Members have expressed the opinion that a History of the Lodge should be written.
With the approach of our 150th Anniversary it has been decided that this would be a fitting occasion to carry out the wish of the Brethren.
Although it is thoroughly understood and Officially confirmed the Founding of our Lodge dates from the year 1802, a search of Records at Grand Lodge quite definitely proves that the Lodge was in existence from 1764 to 1793, and this fact can be considered confirmed by the endorsement to be found at the foot of our Warrant, which reads as follows —
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' This Warrant was originally granted 4th September 1765 by The Right Hon. Thomas Alexander, Earl of Kellie, Grand Master, to Thomas Crisp, W. Master; William Jones and Thomas Benson, Wardens.
(Signed) Edw'd [ Edward ] Harper, D.G. Secretary.'
Whilst matter concerning the period 1764 to 1793 might be considered irtesuscitable to the History of our 150th Anniversary, one feels, the inclusion of some details of those previous years will be of interest to Members of the Lodge.
It is therefore proposed to mention a few particulars which have been brought to light from Grand Lodge Records.
One must request the Reader to bear in mind the many historical happenings in England in those early years.
Our Country was facing grave International difficulties and even danger; no doubt such circumstances would affect those Members of our Lodge whom we know had connections with maritime affairs; (the British Navy and Mercantile Service played a most important part during those anxious times.)
Although there is nothing substantive it has been rumoured, that the Lodge came to its end owing to activities of the Press Gangs. In consequence of such conditions the Reader will appreciate the difficulties our earlier Brethren had to contend with.
It is owing to the lapse in continuity from 1793 to 1802 --when our Lodge was Re-founded or Resuscitated - that Grand Lodge ruled, our existence must date from the year 1802.
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Now for some details concerning the period 1764 to 1793 -
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Lodge No. 128A ( This 'A' refers to the Antients ).
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1764 Held at Sam's Coffee House London
1764 Dec.Held at Crown & Horseshoe Holborn
1765 Held at King's Head Drury Lane
1767 Held at Red Horse Old Bond Street
1768 Held at Queens Head, Queen Street Golden Square
1771 Held at Crown & Feathers Holborn
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Then this Note appears in the Register : —
' Removal of No. 128 confirmed 4th Dec. 1771 and 8th April 1772. Location not stated.'
1789 Held at Black Friar, Playhouse Yard Blackfriars
1793 Held at Globe Market Pall Mall
And here is the final Note in this Register : —
" LAPSED ABOUT 1793. DON'T MEET."
So all knowledge is missing from 1793 to 1802, a break of 9 years.
Under the date 4th September, 1765, (the same date as given in the Endorsement referred to at the foot of our Warrant) a Register at Grand Lodge shows Members present at a Lodge Meeting, to be as follows —
Bros. Thos. Crisp 1/-, Wm. Jones, Thos. Benson, John Clark 1/-, Jas. Perrott 1/-, Wm. Babbige 5/-, Thos. Richardson, John McNabany, Gilbert Beavis, Wm. Simpson, Matt. Finley, John Cordroy, and Geo. Galley.
It is interesting to note, and certainly of much importance, that three of the Brethren present at this Meeting on 4th September, 1765,—Bros. Thomas Crisp, Wm. Jones, and Thomas Benson are mentioned in the Endorsement.
That in itself adds confirmation to the claim that our Lodge did exist prior to 1802.
A point which may puzzle the Reader is the Record of the Meeting of the Lodge, at Sam's Coffee House in 1764 and that the Endorsement gives the date as 4th September, 1765. Grand Lodge has explained, at this period of Masonry, some Lodges held Meetings for a time before an application was made for a Warrant.
We do not possess any Minutes of this earlier period, so the Reader is asked to accept all this information as extracts obtained from Grand Lodge Records.
The final statement " Lapsed about 1793, Don't meet quite definitely marks the termination of its existence in that year.
One wonders ? — No doubt the Lodge held a Warrant; what has become of it? Is it still in existence? Does some other Lodge now possess it ?
Grand Lodge has explained, owing to an Act of Parliament —Reg : 39, George III, Chap, 79 — the Holding of Secret Societies became unlawful and in some instances Lodges became defunct, and Warrants were returned to Grand Lodge.
After a time enforcement of this Act became void, conditional on Masonic Lodges supplying the Justice of the
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Peace with a list of Members, and this Regulation is carried out annually to this day.
Grand Lodge suggests that the Warrant in our possession could be one of those previously returned and passed to our Lodge in 1802.
Without doubt the most treasured possession of the Lodge is our Warrant, and the Reader is advised to give careful inspection of its re-production herein.
It is so very interesting that a study of this valuable Document, should be the concern of every Member of the Lodge.
As the Master informs Initiates—' It is open to your inspection on this or any subsequent Lodge Meeting '—
Therefore one might be excused in reminding our younger Members especially to avail themselves of this privilege.
Careful perusal of the Warrant informs the Reader that it was issued to — The Worshipful John Gilbert, one of our Master Masons; The Worshipful John Livingstone, his Senior Warden; and The Worshipful William Evans, his Junior Warden.
If one could secure information respecting these three Brethren, it might then be possible to discover the original ownership of our Warrant, but on this point Grand Lodge admits it is not possible to give any enlightenment.
So this problem must remain unsolved.
One will observe that the last paragraph reads the 22nd December 1802 ' but on close inspection it seems that the figure eight ' has been written in, whilst the numeral underneath has been cancelled, and it is difficult to discern what was the original year.
The instruction that Masters were to be Installed upon or near, every St. John's Day (that is December 27th) seems to endorse the opinion, that the Warrant was originally in possession of an earlier Lodge, and quite definitely points to its antiquity.
Another point of interest is that the Lodge Meetings are to be held at the Globe Tavern, Blackwall, in the County of Middlesex, and as that was the hostel where our Lodge began its Meetings in 1802—one wonders, was that the reason why this particular Warrant was passed to our Lodge ?
Further, it does seem that the No. 128 was specially written in.
This Warrant or Charter was granted by John, Duke of Atholl, Grand Master; Rt. Wor. William Burwood, S.Gd. W;
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and the Rt. Wor. William Chaplin, J.Gd.W : and is signed by Robert Leslie, Grand Secretary. Two ribbons, one in the Earl of Atholl's colours, and the other of Grand Lodge, each bearing a Seal, are attached to it. Prior to about 1920, it was folded to pocket size and enclosed in a flat metal container. This container is still in our possession and is definitely water-tight in its construction.
It is possible that our early maritime Members may have taken the Warrant on their voyages to sea, and that was the reason for this type of container. With this folding and long usage it became somewhat creased and in parts the script was almost unreadable.
About 1920 a frequent Visitor to our Lodge was a Bro. Joe Bergin, a skilled lithographic artist who kindly offered to renovate the Warrant. It was later returned very considerably improved, and every letter quite legible, and that explains the good condition it is in today.
In acknowledgment of Bro. Bergin's good services, he was invited as the Guest of the Lodge and when responding to the vote expressing our thanks, he informed the Brethren of his difficulty in discerning some of the words, which he could only overcome by the use of a magnifying glass, and tracing indentations in the vellum.
From 1920 onwards the Warrant has been kept in a Calf-skin leather case and is faced with a sheet of cellophane.
During the second World War and about 1943/44, it was decided, owing to risks from Air-Raids to have the Warrant photographed. Our Bro. W. G. Attewell, M.B.E. undertook this task and kindly supplied several prints, one was presented to the Library at Grand Lodge, whilst the remainder was distributed amongst certain Members.
It may be mentioned that the illustration of the Warrant displayed herein, has been re-produced from one of these photographs.
In the Calf-skin case already mentioned, are also preserved The Centenary Warrant dated 7th April, 1903.
` Patron ' Certificate Royal Masonic Hospital, Oct. 31st, 1908; also a letter from the Grand Secretary, dated Feby. 22nd, 1945, which reads as follows : —
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UNITED GRAND LODGE OF ENGLAND
Freemasons Hall,
Great Queen Street,
LONDON, W.C.2. January 22nd, 1945
Dear Sir and Brother,
I understand there has been some discussion regarding the number appearing on the Warrant of your Lodge (granted in 1802) which appears as 128. In 1814, 1832 and 1863, re-numbering of Lodges took place and in those years your number became 151, 112 and 95 respectively, which last, it still holds.
Lodges were notified of the change, but no Warrant was re-numbered or endorsed.
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A Lodge Warrant bearing a different number from that which it holds at present, is a sign of considerable antiquity and is generally prized accordingly.
Yours faithfully and fraternally,
(Signed) SYDNEY A. WHITE,
Grand Secretary.
To, W. Bro. H McP Third,
Sec : Lodge No. 95.
(One may claim this letter from G.L. and signed by the Grand Secretary is of the utmost importance).
This letter is in a separate two-fold small case, and is faced by memorabilia which reads as follows : —
NOTES ON WARRANT.
128, Our original Atholl " or Antient Number Issued 1765, renewed 1802.
151, Union of Antients and Moderns. Note in our Minutes—' W.M : and two others attended Lodge of Reconciliation previous to Union on December 27th, 1813, and were re-obligated by Modern Masons a t Freemasons Tavern as ordered. New Number 151 appears 15th February, 1814, and a Minute reads proceeded to read Regulations of the Lodge of Reconciliation.'
Eastern Star, Copy of letter to Grand Lodge asking permission to use • name-10th June, 1818. First used in Minutes 15th June, 1818.
112 (1832) and 95 (1863) are changes ordered by G.L : to fill blanks caused by Lodges being closed.
(Signed) H. McP, Third,
Secretary, 16 / 2 / 45.
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EXTRACTS FROM THE MINUTES OF THE LODGE
(with some comments)
1803. The first Meeting recorded was held on February 10th, 1803, and a Candidate by the name of Christmas Bendell was Initiated and Passed.
The Minutes record the attendance of Bro. John Gilbert, W.M; Bro. Olivers S.W; pro tem; and Bro. Taylor J.W; pro tern : Both these two acting Officers were Members of Lodge No. 3.
The Second Meeting was in March, Lodge opened at 7 o/c p.m; and the List of Brethren present appears much more imposing. Names included 3 Members of Lodge No. 3, 1 of Lodge No. 8, and no less than 8 from Lodge No. 261.
Also present was Bro. Betts, J.W : of Grand Lodge—undoubtedly an important occasion for the Lodge.
A letter was read from Grand Lodge recommending Lodge No. 128 to the attention of the Antient Craft.
(It has already been explained that our Lodge was formed under the Atholl regime and was thereby styled Antient,' it would therefore seem to have been the custom of Grand Lodge to introduce or recommend Lodges on its Register to each other—hence this communication).
Bro. Bendell who had been I & P at the previous Meeting was R to the 3rd D. Lodge closed at 11-30 p.m :
(Brethren appear to have kept late hours and this makes one wonder how they reached their destinations, as Public Transport must have been very limited in those days).
1805. The Lodge admitted as a Joining Member Bro. Obadiah Woodcock, a Member of Lodge called Good Intent ' No. 477 under the Modern regime, and its interesting to note this Bro. had to be re-initiated and passed into the Antient Brotherhood but was called upon to pay only half the usual fees.
(This discloses the ' line ' which was drawn between the two Grand Lodges—prior to the amalgamation, and it seems to have been the general practice).
This Bro. Woodcock remained a Member of the Lodge until his death several years later.
It appears that these earlier Meetings were often sparsely attended. The Tyler Bro. Aldhouse always gave the Lectures, and the Tracing Board was drawn in chalk on the floor, and on the conclusion of Business it was rubbed out.
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(Records of some old Lodges disclose this was a usual practice, and the task of obliterating the drawing was undertaken by an Entered Apprentice).
1807. It would appear in this year the Lodge considered and adopted the Rules and Regulations as issued by Grand Lodge in 1803. These are in an elaborately calf-bound folio, still in our possession, and is really a most interesting document which can be justly prized. There are 26 Rules governing Craft Freemasonry, as well as information applicable to Holy Royal Arch Chapters as confirmed by Grand Lodge on December 1st, 1794.
On several blank pages notes have been written concerning Lodge matters which will be referred to later.
One wishes space was available to reproduce this book in its entirety, but the Reader must be asked to accept a perusal of a few of the most interesting items.
The beautifully engraved frontispiece reads as follows : -
IN THE YEAR OF MASONRY 5803.
The most Noble Prince, John, Duke and Marquis oi Atholl, Marquis and Earl of Tullibardine, Earl of Strathtay and Strathardle, etc., etc., etc. Grand Master of the most Antient and Honourable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons.
The R. W. Thomas Harper Esqr. D.G.M : Willm. Burwood Esqr, S.G.W :
Willm. Chaplin Esqr, J.G.W :
Mr. Robert Leslie, Edward Harper, G. Secretaries.
On the second page is a Declaration for blanks to be filled in and states—' In order to prevent all Feuds, Controversies, Illegal Arguments, or Debates which might in any sort disturb or make void the true Intent and Meaning of this our unanimous Conjunction', and goes on to declare the said Rules are accepted by the Master, Wardens, Deacons and Secretary of the Lodge.
Rule 1. That the Lodge shall be held at Globe Tavern, Blackwall on third Tuesday of each Kalendar Month To observe a due Decorum while the Lodge is engaged in what is ferious and Folemn . . . ., a Brother well skilled in the Mafter's Part shall he appointed and paid, for Tyling Lodge door.
Rule 2. Lodge to meet at hours hereafter mentioned; via; from the Vernal Equinox to the Autumnal Equinox, at seven o'clock in the evening, and fit till ten.
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From Autumnal Equinox aforefaid to the Vernal Equinox following, from Six to Nine o'clock .. .
Any Member arriving after appointed time of Meeting shall be fined six pence, if abfent whole Night, the fine will be One shilling . . . except fuch Abfentee be Sick, Lame in Confinement
All fuch Fines depofited in the Fund for Relief of indegent Brethren.
Rule 5. Imposes Fines on Brethren appointed to Office refusing to serve. viz; for Mafter Five Shillings, each Warden and Secretary two shillings and six pence; each Deacon One shilling (the Treasurer at the Difcretion of the Majority).
Rule 6. Members fhall dine together upon (oil Near) every St. Johns Day, and that Members shall pay four shillings towards defraying the Charges of the Festival.
All Vifitors who dine on fuch Feaft shall pay three shillings above the conftant Members.
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. . .. That the new Mafter and other Officers be inftalled immediately after Dinner, at which time all and every of the Accompts belonging to the Feaft shall be properly fettled . .
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Rule 7. That on every ftated Lodge Night each Member shall pay eighteen pence of which one shilling shall be spent, and Remainder put into Fund for the Relief of indegent Brethren.
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It goes on to state—any Member ordering Liquor etc., without the authority of the junior Warden must defray costs out of his own pocket.
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Rule 9. States any Brother who proposes a Candidate shall depofite such a sum (of the Candidate's money) as the majority shall think fufficient (not less than one crown).
—One might mention here prior to our present Bye-Laws being adopted, a Rule existed calling upon the Proposer to forfeit one guinea if the Candidate failed to come forward—
The Candidate had to be of mature age, upright in body and limbs, free from Bondage, has the senses of a Man Fee for I. not less than two guineas and cloath the Lodge if required.
This strange word CLOATH '—what did it mean?
Requesting help from the Librarian and Curator at Grand Lodge Museum resulted in a really most interesting explanation, which reads as follows : —
" That is an interesting Minute you have found in the Records of No. 95, and one of the latest I know of referring to an ancient custom,
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The Candidate in the early days was called upon to provide all Members with an apron and gloves, and in addition to give something towards charity; this was called Cloathing the Lodge'.
The gift of apron and gloves can hardly have persisted so long as 1807 (date of your Minute), so I think the old phraseology was used in all probability to denote that he provided some money for charitable purposes; this at least seems to be the most likely explanation to me".
(Signed) J. HERON LEPPER, Librarian & Curator,
Freemasons Hall, W.C.2.
Rule 11. If any Brother in this Lodge curfe, fwear, lay, or offer to lay Wagers, or ufe any reproachful Language . . . . or interrupt any Officer while fpeaking, he shall he fined at the Difcretion of the Mafter and Majority.
Rule 12. If any Member come difguifed in Liquor he shall he admonifhed for the firft Offence, . . for the fecond, fined One Shilling, . . for the third he fhall be excluded and reported to Grand Lodge.
Rule 20. The Tyler shall receive one shilling for every Mason made and sixpence for every old Mafon that shall become a Member of this Lodge.
Rule 24. That in order to preferve good Harmony and encourage (working) Mafter Masons . . . . no Brother under the Degree of a Mafter Mafon shall vifit this Lodge upon any Pretence whatfoever.
On one of the blank pages at the end of this Book it is noted : —
` We the undersigned agree to the 26 preceding Articles with Blanks as filled in and to which. we have subscribed our Names.
Wm. Cotton W.M :
T. Crawford S.W :
Owen Griffiths J.W :
John Gilbert P.M :
Thomas Tempest P.M :
James Murdock Sec.
and six other Brethren.
Several of the other blank pages have been utilised for Minutes.
Under date 17th March 1807 is Recorded : —
0. in the 3rd D. at 7 o/c and Bye-Laws were read to those Brethren not present last (Lodge) night.
Cash collected 13-6, house bill 9/-. Paid for Gd.L. £3.10.0.
On the following page is recorded ' Stated Lodge Night No. 128 21st January 5810. Bro. Tempest in the Chair.
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Bro. Geo. Munday apprentice Mason was P to the D of a F.0 : came into Lodge and returning thanks in due form.
Bro. James Masters and Bro. Geo. Munday were R from F.0 to the sublime Degree of a M.M : and returned thanks in due form.
A financial item at foot reads-14 C 7/- = 98/- = £4.18.0.
Further Minutes of a Meeting held 27th February 1807 are stated, but why use of these few blank pages in this very important book should be ultilised for this purpose, one cannot explain unless it was that the Minutes Book proper was unavailable.
( As these low Fees or Dues frequently crop up in our early Records, it may be well to remind the Reader that the monetary value was very much higher in those days, than it rates in the present time, and no less an authority than the Director General, Gerald Barry, when discussing the prices for admission to The Festival of Britain, made this statement : —
" A hundred years ago a shilling was worth at least five perhaps nearer ten times—what it is worth today, in terms of purchasing power and in relation to what a man earned".
It is therefore necessary the Reader should keep this comparison in mind when noting the Fees, also Grants in Benevolence as stated in our early Records from time to time).
It has already been mentioned that many of the Members of our early period were connected with maritime affairs, and no doubt for their convenience the Lodge met at places around the area of Dockland. An old List of Members reveals the occupation of the Brethren when they met at Blackwall, to be as follows-
13 Mariners,
5 Shipwrights,
4 Boatbuilders,
2 Mast-makers,
1 Pilot,
1 Blockmaker and
1 Lighterman.
Then we have the Title of the Lodge —The Eastern Star, and it appears this name was taken from an East Indiaman which was launched from Green's Shipbuilding Yard about this time, and most probably some of our Members had a hand in its construction or may have sailed in her.
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When recognising these nautical callings and the Dock-side venues of the Lodge, it should not be too difficult for our members of today to visualise the genial atmosphere with ' its tang of the sea, and the clouds of heavy smoke ' which would abound when those ' Old Salts ' gathered together for the Lodge Meeting.
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There must have been many splicings of the Main Brace'
1810. The Lodge remained at The Globe Tavern, Blackwall until the year 1810—that is for eight years,—It then went to The King's Arms; the reason stated for this change was the installation of a billiards table in the room used as a Temple and Members rightly resented this intrusion.
But one wonders, was this obstruction shortly removed, as we find the Lodge back again at The Globe Tavern in the following year, and yet two years afterwards, 1813, the Lodge returned once more to The King's Arms.
1813. This period must have been of great importance to our old Lodge for one reads in February 1813 a Bro. Philip Broadfoot of Lodge No. 300 was elected as Honorary Member, and at the following Meeting in March he was Installed Master.
Thus was created a record in rapid promotion, but on reference to the comments herein given about the great Masonic abilities of this excellent Brother, the Reader will no doubt, fully appreciate the unusual preferment extended by the Members to him.
His Installation was undoubtedly a prelude to the fusion of the two Grand Lodges, and at this date, we Members of The Eastern Star No. 95, may take some pride in the knowledge. that our esteemed Master, Bro. Broadfoot took active participation in the Reconciliation of the two Grand Lodges of England.
Perusal of the Article about Bro. Broadfoot should cause the Reader to agree that 1813 was a memorable year for our Lodge.
At a Meeting held November 21st; it was proposed, carried, and recorded on the Minutes, that the Lodge shall in future be styled The Lodge of Tranquility', but nothing appears in any subsequent Minute that this Resolution was ever carried into effect, and it was not until 1818 that it was again resolved that the Lodge should bear a name, and the following letter was accordingly sent to Messrs. White and Harper, two Grand Lodge Officers : —
To Messrs. White & Harper,
June 10th, 1818.
Gentlemen,
The W.M : and Brethren of Lodge 151 held at The Globe Tavern, Blackwall, in open Lodge have unanimously agreed to the name of The Eastern Star to be adopted as a distinguishing name to the same Lodge, and have therefore submitted it to you for the approbation of H.R.H. the Most Worshipful Grand Master, and have to request you will make a Minute of their
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night of meeting which is on the third Tuesday of every month in order that it may be entered in the next yearly Calendar, as it has always been omitted in those we have had.
I remain Bros,
Yours most respectfully,
W. WILSON, Secretary.
(This gives definite information that at this period the Lodge was meeting monthly and on the 3rd Tuesday).
As will be observed by this letter the Lodge had been re-numbered 151.
At the Meeting held on November 30th, an Initiate by the name of Bro. Worthy was P and R so that he could attend the Installation of the Duke of Kent as Grand Master.
(At the end of the Minutes there appears a poignant Note—" There was no refreshment had in Lodge Room on this night "). There was no Meeting in December but it is recorded—W. M. Whittall, B. Grundy Junr. and Bro. James Murdock attended the Lodge of Reconciliation previous to the Union on December 27th, 1813, and were Re-obligated by the Modern Masons at the Freemasons Tavern as ordered.
1814. At the February Meeting the Regulations of the Lodge of Reconciliation were read—this apparently completed the Lodge Records of the fusion. At 10 o/c p.m the Lodge was called to refreshment and the sum of one pound was collected for that purpose, 16/9 was expended, leaving a balance of 3/3 against which there is this Note—`This balance was spent after Lodge Closed'.
A more serious paragraph records that Bro. Green of The White Hart borrowed five of the Jewels—the property of the Lodge—from Bro. Cotton, Bro. Green lost these and they were never returned, but were replaced by others at a later date.
It appears that the Meeting in March could not be held owing to the Tyler's omission to summon the Members to the Regular Lodge Night; there were but 3 members and 3 Visitors present, nor did the Master attend with the Warrant.
Consequently a Fellow Craft, named Bro. Thorpe who was in attendance to be R. could not go on—" at which disappointment he was much hurt".
A Minute dated May 27th records an Emergency Meeting.
Lodge was Opened at 7 o/c in the 3 Degrees to elevate Bros. Lampson and Hunter into the Superior Degree of Excellent and High Excellent Master Masons.
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(This of course refers to the Royal Arch as the two Brethren received their Certificates at a subsequent Meeting and in later Minutes it is recorded further proceedings of this nature were carried out).
In its early career the Lodge met monthly, and had a struggle for existence, as is exemplified by the number of Lodge nights when a quorum was not present and the Lodge not opened.
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On one occasion-16th January, 1810, the Lodge was not Opened because the room was engaged by Officers of the East India Shipping Coy.
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Probably owing to these difficulties it became the custom to propose the adjournment of Meetings from April or May until September or October.
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Several Emergency Meetings were however called, in order to Initiate Maritime Candidates and it is interesting to note, such Candidates had to pay the cost of the Emergency Meeting, viz : one guinea as well as the Initiation Fee.
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One reads in 1824 a Ship's Surgeon was Initiated at one of these Emergency Meetings as he was leaving England immediately. He applied for, and was granted a Grand Lodge Certificate that he had taken his First Degree.
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Quite often in those days Candidates were Initiated, Passed, and Raised at the one Meeting, and if necessary given a Lodge Certificate to the effect that they had gone through these Ceremonies.
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The Lodge had made an Official Seal to affix to this Form of Certificate, and reference is, made in a Minute in October, 1818, to the Seal. This Seal cannot now be traced.
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1815. At the Meeting in January appears the first recorded instance of the presentation of a Past-Master's Jewel, the recipient being Bro. Philip Broadfoot.
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1821. In October the Lodge decided that sea-faring Brethren should pay 1/- per month as Lodge Dues, and 1/- per quarter Grand Lodge Dues, such payments to he made yearly and in advance.
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(Evidently the roving mariner ' was allowed little credit in those days).
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1826. About this time the Lodge appears to have entered a bad period. Meetings were quite frequently not formally Opened, owing to sparse attendance, and this may have been a reason for Members demanding that the Lodge should remove its meeting place from Blackwall to Poplar; so in 1827 one finds them at Commercial Coffee House, Poplar.
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Apparently this move proved to be beneficial as at the succeeding Meetings many new Members, both Initiates and Joining came along.
1828. In this year the presentation of a Sword was made by Bro. Farmer—(see ' Jewels and Possessions of the Lodge')—This was received with cordial thanks and is amongst our valued Gifts to this day, and is the Tyler's Jewel of Office.
1830. Appears the first mention of a Charity Box; the contents of which were to be paid over from time to time to the Boys School.
This particular Box appears to have disappeared as the one now in use was presented in 1849.
In further connection with Charity, Notes appear at various Meetings to the effect that donations were made to indegent Brethren from time to time, and in various sums from 1/• to one pound. (Before disparaging such gratuities the Reader should consider previous remarks relative to monetary value of 100 years ago).
1831. The Lodge decided it was high time that a Lodge of Instruction should be formed. This duly came about and Minutes of the L of I appear at various times, interspersed with those of the Regular Lodge. In fact, in those days, it seemed quite common to accept Proposals for Initiation, also to discuss and decide ordinary Lodge Business at the L of I.
(One is unable to say for how long this L of I remained active, and it is somewhat remarkable that when the Members decided to form the present L of I in 1913, not a word was mentioned about the earlier one, and no Member appeared to have any knowledge of it having existed).
In the same year, 1831, the Lodge, received a letter from Lodge of Harmony No. 477, of Greyhound Inn, Richmond, Surrey, relative to the formation of a Fund for Aged and Infirm Masons, " and did express their approval of same'.
Later on September 15th, the Master and several Brethren took part in a procession with Grand Lodge on the occasion of laying the Foundation Stone of the Charing Cross Hospital.
(By such participation one may presume that the Craft was actively associated with the Founding of this old and famous London Hospital).
1833. In January the Lodge was renumbered 112.
(This raises a curious point as one is aware that our No. was 128 from 1802 to 1813. and 1814 it became No. 151. But one cannot find either of these numbers on our Warrant, yet one can see the Number 112 has been written in).
Proceedings of the Lodge Meeting on October 12th, present somewhat unique features.
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The Lodge was Opened, Business concluded, and it Closed at 9 o/c. But at 11 o/c p.m it was re-opened in consequence of a Proposition to Initiate a Mr. H. Caffery, Master Mariner, at a Lodge of Emergency on October 22nd; this Ceremony duly took place, the Candidate paying as usual the cost of the Emergency Meeting.
(By such procedure it rather seems that some Members received information that this Mr. Caffery desired to join the Craft AFTER the Lodge had Closed. May one suggest during the intervening two hours the Brethren may have been partaking of refreshments after Labour, and that Mr. Caffery then decided he would like to become a Mason, having experienced such congenial company).
At this period the Minutes are beautifully written, but the Recording Brother had some difficulty with the word ' Unanimous ', which he spells Unamiously or alternatively Uamiously '.
The Minutes always recorded the financial position of the Lodge and were often signed by the Treasurer instead of the Master.
1834. The Clerk of the Peace requested Grand Lodge to ask all Lodges to furnish a list of Members.
(The Reader will find comments about this Regulation in the remarks upon the origin of our Warrant). 1836. The " LODGE of INSTRUCTION " proposed that a Past Master's Jewel should be purchased at the expense of the Lodge. This was confirmed at next Regular Lodge Meeting. (The Reader may have noticed an earlier Record shows # that for the first time a Past Master's Jewel was provided in the year 1815 and presented to Bro. Broadfoot. Now 21 years later, we are informed of the purchase of this second P.M's Jewel. One might wonder if the intermediate Masters were omitted from this honour).
At this same Meeting of the Lodge Brethren expressed their thanks to
Bro. Fuller for presenting to the Lodge a Triangle and Tackle together with a Pencil and Skirrett.
Bro. Otter for a Perfect Ashlar, etc.
Bro. Goodenough for a Lodge Chest. (This was destroyed on December 29th, 1940 at the time when the (then) Secretary's Office was bombed by Enemy Action).
Bro. Wardell for a Rough Ashlar and Chisel.
Bro. Purdy for a 24 in. Gauge.
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1841. At December Meeting a Bro. Lazarus P.M of Lodges 420 and 61 was present as a Visitor and in January, 1842, was elected a Joining Member. The following month (February) he was elected Master and duly Installed at next Meeting in March.
(This certainly was quick promotion but not quite so rapid as Bro. Broadfoot's appointment to the Chair).
1844. Funds of the Lodge appeared to be very low and several Members were in arrears. The Tyler was instructed to collect these to enable Grand Lodge Dues to be paid.
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At the same Meeting it was agreed the Lodge should contribute at the rate of 1/- per Member to the Duke of Sussex Memorial.
1846. The Lodge gave 10/- towards a portrait of Mrs. Cook—the Matron of the " Female School ".
It also received from Bro. Newsom a print of our worthy and respected Bro. Peter Thomson, P. G. J.D : and P.M : of Lion & Lamb Lodge.
We do not now appear to possess this portrait.
Bro. Peter Thomson passed away in 1851.
1847. The January Meeting seems to have been a very busy one.
The Tyler was elected a Joining Member and his Fees remitted.
The Master Elect was Installed.
It therefore appears that the occasion for installing Masters varied.
Bro. Frederick was Passed to the 2nd D : and two Candidates were Initiated.
In December of the same year, the Lodge adopted new Bye-Laws.
1848. During this year certain Members Of our Lodge sponsored the Yarborough Lodge No. 812, now No. 554. This Lodge was Consecrated in July, 1848, and amongst its Founders were three Members of The Eastern Star Lodge, one of whom, Bro. Vesper became its first Master.
The Records of the Yarborough Lodge inform us that Bro. Vesper was a partner in a furnishing firm in shipping circles, in OUR Records he is described as a Pawnbroker.
This of course is quite feasible, the two businesses being under the same proprietorship.
At the Audit in this year the Lodge was sincerely congratulated by the Committee on the prosperous state of the Funds.
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These are detailed as follows : -
£11.18. 8 this no doubt being the General Fund, and X 2. 2.10 Charitable Fund.
Bearing in mind the earlier explanation given about monetary values of 100 years ago, the Reader should not disparage the satisfaction of those earlier Brethren.
1851. Amongst the Documents in our possession is a Quarterly Communication Report, showing the List of Subscribing Lodges and one notes—No. 112 Eastern Star, Poplar, also No. 812 Yarborough, Commercial Road, E.
Throughout its long existence occasions have arisen when the financial position of the Lodge has called for consideration.
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Membership has fallen off, then Fees would be reduced, or number of Meetings curtailed.
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At one period in order to meet such a financial problem, and when seven Meetings were held within the year, it is recorded that at two of the Meetings Brethren were called upon to pay for their own refreshments. At the present time our Membership is about 65 and is apparently the largest number in the history of the Lodge. Of this number 20 Members have passed the Chair.
Dispensation was applied for and granted by Grand Lodge, to hold an Emergency Meeting in order to Initiate no less than six Candidates. This document is in our possession and is entirely handwritten.
1854-56. It is somewhat curious that during this period and when Bros. Weaver, Grimes and Davis served the Office as Masters, the Minutes of the Lodge were not signed. Why this formality was omitted one is unable to say.
1857. A Minute of the April Meeting records ' that the W.M : solemnly admonished two of the Brethren respecting their conduct at the last three Meetings, threatening to refer them to Grand Lodge according to the Book of Constitution.
Whereupon the recalcitrant ones apologised and promised better behaviour in the future.
1859. A letter from Grand Lodge, copied in full in the Minutes warning all Lodges against receiving visitors or applications for Joining Members from Lodges formed in Smyrna under what purports to be Grand Lodge of Turkey ' was not recognised by the English Constitution.
1860. The Lodge decided to hold a Summer Banquet at the Crown Inn, Broxbourne, Huts, and to invite Ladies.
Bro. Benningfield was the Licensee and this arrangement appears to have become an annual event.
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This outing was no doubt an innovation and may have been the fore-runner to what one calls a Ladies Festival these days.
But from information passed on, Bro. Herbert Riches, Master in 1903, was the first to propose having a Ladies Night. It was received by the Members with mixed feelings. However Bro. Riches related that the occasion took place, and that he sent personal invitations to those Brethren in opposition and that they all attended with their wives. With few exceptions during the last World War this function has taken place annually to the delight and satisfaction of all concerned.
1863. The Lodge removed to the Ship & Turtle, Leadenhall Street, City. It remained there for 44 years.
From the Rose & Crown Inn, Bromley-by-Bow to this then most famous City Restaurant, was indeed a great step-up For this Restaurant with its famous cuisine was the Mecca of gastronomes.
Need one be surprised to find that up to the date of this History our sojournment at the Ship & Turtle far outdates any other venue.
To endorse the opinion expressed of the ' high standing this Restaurant had in the City, the Reader's attention is called to this Note in the Minute —
" For visiting Brethren it was agreed the Fee should he raised from 7/6 to 10/6 ".
At that period one may conclude a really sumptuous BANQUET would be provided for the sum of 10/6. Undoubtedly from then onwards much consideration was given to the Menus, and eventually the Lodge had the reputation for good feeding.
In this year Grand Lodge informed the Lodge its No. on the Register of the Grand Lodge of England would be 95.
About this time some discussion arose on various expenses, and it was agreed that the Audit Committee should be allowed the sum of two guineas in place of one. This no doubt would be for refreshments, and expenses of this nature continued to be permitted for many years afterwards, in fact until about the year 1933 when the Lodge left Frascati's Restaurant.
1865. At the Meeting held in April it was proposed " that the Centenary of the Lodge being on the 4th of September, it having been established in 1765 — permission of Grand Lodge he obtained to have a Centenary Jewel ", and a Committee was appointed.
A letter was received in reply giving particulars as have been previously stated in this History in connection with the
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details of our Warrant. Foundation of the Lodge was Officially Registered in 1802 '.
This decision was loyally accepted by the Brethren. 1875. In March Grand Lodge wrote that the Prince of Wales would he Installed as Grand Master of the Order on April 28th, at the Albert Hall, and requested that a Steward Should be appointed, also any Brother desirous of attending the function to send in his name.
Bro. Harry Bateman was appointed Steward and every Brother then present signified his wish to attend.
It is recorded that 11 Members did in fact receive invitations.
1877. At this time Masonry was concerned about the action of the Grand Lodge of Germany refusing to admit anyone but a Christian ', and in 1878 the Grand Orient of France announced it was removing from its Constitution those paragraphs that assert a belief in a Supreme Being.
Our Minutes have no Record as to the attitude of Grand Lodge towards the German decision, but we have preserved a Report of March 6th, 1878, ordering that no Foreign Visitor be admitted unless he is vouched for, or unless his Certificate states he professes belief in the G.A.O.T.0 : , and that he himself acknowledges the same.
1880. In April a proposal was put forward to hold an Emergency Meeting on May 10 to take into consideration the desirability of forming a Chapter.
That Meeting was duly held and the opportunity taken to P & R two Brethren in the Lodge, but it is extraordinary not to be able to find any mention of the proposal to Form the Chapter, and it was not until November that it was proposed and carried—' A Chapter shall be formed and called The Eastern Star Chapter '. The Chapter was consecrated on June 21st, 1881.
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1881. The Meeting in January is recorded by a marginal Note as being extraordinary, only 8 Members being present owing to great snow storms.
1887. (Jubilee year). Five Members of the Lodge attended at the Royal Albert Hall in commemoration of the Jubilee of H.M. Queen Victoria, paying one guinea each.
The Lodge gave a donation of five guineas to the Imperial Institute. The Installation Banquet in this year of rejoicing was a notable event, and has been preserved, a repast was partaken which could hardly he surpassed at the Royal Table.
A re-production of the Menu is given herewith; the Reader will be enabled to compare it with that served during the Mastership of the Rev. Bro. E. R. Moore and in the year of austerity, 1947.
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AN INSTALLATION MENU IN THE DAYS OF PLENTY.
15th February, 1887.
at
SHIP & TURTLE TAVERN, E.C:
Master, W. Bro. J. M. Knight.
Native Oysters,
SOUPS,
Thick and Clear Turtle,
FISH,
Turbot aux vin blanc,
Saumon, sauce homard,
Whitebait plain and devilled,
ENTREES.
Cotelettes de chevreuil a la perigord,
Ris de veau aux petits pois, Cassolettes de fruit de mer,
REMOVES.
Selles de mutton.
jambon &York aux epinards, Poudings de mauviettes a L'Anglaise,
Poulardes roties au cresson,
Cauliflowers, seakale, pommes nature,
Salade de chicoree,
GAME,
Faisans, canards sauvages,
pommes en chaines,
SWEETS,
Croutes aux ananas,
gelees au champagne,
Patisserie variee,
Meringues a la creme,
Pouding glace a la Painter,
Bloater roes on toast,
Dessert, &c, &c.
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A MENU IN THE DAYS OF AUSTERITY.
21st January, 1947.
at CONNAUGHT ROOMS, W.C.2.
Master,
W. Bro. Rev. E. R. Moore.
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Bordure Fecampoise,
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Steak Saute,
Choux Vert,
Pommes Persillees,
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Marquise de Fruits,
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Glace Vanille,
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Cafe.
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1890. April 15th; A donation was voted to the fund being raised to provide an annuity for Bro. Binches upon his retirement as Secretary to the R.M. school for Boys.
Also approved that sea-faring Members shall pay two guineas per year, this amount to include Gd Lodge Dues and entitle them to one free banquet, for all others they shall pay 25/-.
1891. Jany 20th. Bro. Bateman a P.M : reported that Bro. Hill who had gone to Chicago had informed him, as his certificate was made out with in-correct christian names, he had destroyed it, and had applied for a corrected re-placement as he wished to join Masonry in America.
It was agreed Bro. Hill must make direct request to the Lodge.
1892. Jany 19th; Owing to the death of H.R.H. the Duke of Clarence, Brethren decided not to hold the banquet.
1895. 19th February. The Brethren had made preparations to present to Bro. G. S. Ayres a silver salver in recognition of his services as Treasurer for 10 years, as he was away ill, the Secretary was requested to hand it over. It appears that Bro. Ayres passed away before this could be done and the salver was given to his family. A grateful asknowledg-ment written by his son is attached to this Minute.
1896. 21st January. The Lodge voted a gratuity to the widow of Bro. Thos. Duces who had lost his life in a fire.
At several meetings around this period suggestions were made about appointing an Organist, and in 1898 the Lodge agreed to appoint Bro. James Bayne. His Joining Fee to be paid by Lodge Funds, and his subscription remitted in return for his services.
1899. 21st March. Bro. Howard Ruff gave Notice, at next Meeting he would Move—' It was desirable in the interests of the Lodge to remove from the Ship & Turtle to the Albion Hotel, Aldersgate Street.'
At following Lodge Meeting this was supported by seven Past-Masters, and a Committee of five appointed to make enquiries at the Albion Hotel. There is no information about the report of this Committee, and it is somewhat significant to find, when a move was made in 1907 it was to the Restaurant Frascati.
October 17th. As the management at the Ship €1 Turtle was about to be changed again, the Brethren decided to remain there for the time being and see if the conditions improved.
November 21st. Eleven pounds voted to the Daily Telegraph's Fund for Widows & Orphans of the Transvaal War.
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1900. January 29th. This Meeting was postponed until February 5th; on account of the death of H.M. Queen Victoria.
1902. On June 20th formal application was made to Grand Lodge for a Centenary Jewel, and on May 18th a Centenary Warrant was granted on the payment of a fee of two guineas.
Owing to reasons for austerity this Jewel has not been much in evidence during the past few years, but our newer Members might be informed, every Member of our Lodge is entitled to wear this Jewel on all Masonic occasions, and information respecting its provision can be obtained from our Brother Tyler.
1903. In December the Lodge accepted, with gratitude, an offer by Bro. Bannatyne to provide Firing Glasses for use at the Banqueting table to continue an antient custom.
Records of an earlier date show that the Lodge possessed these Glasses, and they are referred to as Charge Glasses,' it would therefore seem those presented by Bro. Bannatyne were by way of replacements, and associated with the Lodge's Centenary as they are engraved 1802-1903.
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1908. In March the Lodge was requested to furnish the name of a Member to Grand Lodge to be considered for London Rank. Bro. Howard Ruff was nominated, and this appears to be the first occasion on which any Member of our Lodge received this distinction.
1919. Candidates for Freemasonry had from January to be proposed on a Special Form supplied by Grand Lodge.
Prior to this Ruling, Candidates could be proposed, and seconded verbally in Open Lodge, the Proposition to appear on next Lodge Summons and their Initiation could take place at that Meeting.
1921. In this year the Lodge decided To endeavour to qualify as a Hall-Stone Lodge ' and on instructions from Grand Lodge to elect a Lodge Representative for this purpose; the Brethren decided to appoint Bro. Wm. Neeld.
The Reader will gain fuller information on this matter by reference to the Note on ` Hall-Stone Lodge.'
Attached to the Minutes at this period is a magnificent photograph depicting Bro. Howard Ruff receiving from the Lord Mayor at the Mansion House, City, an Illuminated Testimonial presented by the Royal Society of St. George for his services as Hony. Secretary & Founder, and it bears the date November 15th, 1921.
1922. Bro. H. G. Bonner, P.M : was presented with a Past-Master's Jewel with a bar attached, originally this Jewel was worn by his father, Bro. Henry Bonner in 1879.
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