Freemasonry in Durham

Harte enjoys a reputation for organising a good night and have again lived up to that reputation by persuading Dr Robert Lomas, author of the Hiram Key and many other masonic books, to travel up to Hartlepool to deliver one of his superb lectures to a full house of Durham freemasons that included a magnificent 68 visitors from 36 lodges. Robert is certainly well written and well versed in matters masonic, to the extent that he was even involved with Dan Brown on his Lost Key book and has been named by Brown as the substance and inspiration behind his Robert Langdon character.

Six decades of ardent support for Masonry September 2016 The evening of 22nd September was no regular meeting for the brethren of the Lodge of Fraternity…

Not many people, apart from his close friends and family, will know the name of Silvester William Brunton, but mention the name Sid Brunton to anyone in Dunston and Gateshead and immediately you can see a smile of joy appears on their faces.

Ray joined the Lodge of Industry in 1956 and although only a day away from another big day in his life, the birth of his daughter, Ray’s wife Alice gave special dispensation for him to attend and be initiated. As a mark of the times, it took Ray some 17 years to climb the ladder and become master in 1973 before he carried on with various other offices in support of his lodge.

In life, it’s good to remember our history and practice traditions. A fine example of both amply relate to Durham School, which was founded in 1414, that’s over six hundred years’ worth of history to reflect upon. The historic school buildings and chapel blend in wonderfully into the landscape of the ancient city of Durham with its Castle and Cathedral. Former pupils are known as Old Dunelmians

Freemasons around the world are very proud of their history and customs, so much so than many lodge archives as well as masonic museums are full to bursting with artefacts and items of interest going back hundreds of years. One of the most iconic and obvious items that your attentions within a Freemasons lodge is the intricate lodge banner which hangs in an illuminated position for all to see. This is an item that lodges like to keep and display for all to see, despite many decades of wear and tear.

If you ever attend a Masonic meeting in Ryton you will probably hear the name Alan Chapman. You may not personally know Alan but in any of the Lodges within the Town his name is often mentioned by those who know him and always mentioned by those who have just met him