Historical Origins of the Mark Degree

The Mark is a ceremony or degree [sometimes called the ‘friendly’ degree], conferrable today only to Master Masons and forms part of a hierarchical organization. In Craft Masonry it was quite a late innovation making its appearance during the mid-1700s.  However we do know that Operative Masons, without any kind of ceremony, were taking marks 150 years before the Mark came into use as part of that particular ceremony.

The Influence of Kings on Craft Freemasonry

‘From time immemorial’ we have been very fortunate in that our Craft has had the support of Royalty. Without that support I doubt that we would be in the same position as we are today, even taking into account our declining numbers. Royalty brought and registered a degree of class, charisma & gentlemanly behaviour to … Read more

Wigan Freemasons Tercentenary Church Service

Following on from the several successful social events celebrating 300 years of Craft Freemasonry already held in the Wigan Group, this year’s church service was a special event with a tercentenary theme. Brethren and their families from across the Wigan and District Group, and even from further afield, filled St Matthew’s Church, Highfield to participate … Read more