Robert Henderson-Bland: actor, soldier, poet and Freemason
Command performance Robert Henderson-Bland was an actor, soldier, poet and Freemason. Director of the Library and Museum of Freemasonry Diane…
English Freemasonry
King George VI – The King and the Craft
This document encapsulates the views of HM King George VI on the pivotal role of Freemasonry in fostering spiritual and moral regeneration within society. Drawing from a letter dated November 5, 1951, addressed to MW Bro Rt Hon the Earl of Scarbrough, King George VI articulates his long-standing belief in Freemasonry’s positive impact. Despite his inability to personally install Lord Scarborough as Grand Master due to his final illness, his message resonates with earlier sentiments expressed during his attendance at Grand Lodge events. Born in 1895 and initially destined for a supporting role within the Royal Family, King George VI’s active service during World War I and subsequent involvement in Freemasonry underscored his commitment to public service and philanthropy. This document explores his Masonic journey, highlighting his initiation into the Navy Lodge No. 2612, his reflections on Freemasonry’s charitable works, and his broader contributions to British society and the empire.
Pro Grand Master looks ahead to our Tercentenary
Involvement and cooperation As we celebrate the efforts of those who have achieved Grand Rank, Pro Grand Master Peter Lowndes reflects…
Diversity and inclusivity has always been fundamental to Freemasonry says John Hamill
The happy means We hear a great deal about diversity and inclusivity these days but, as Director of Special Projects John Hamill explains, they are…
Pro Grand Master’s address – April 2015
Craft Annual Investiture 29 April 2015 An address by the MW Pro Grand Master Peter Lowndes Brethren, I welcome you all to this Annual Investiture and…
Duke of Sussex’s crucial role in the formation of modern Freemasonry
Independent thinker Embracing tolerance and approaching life with an open mind, it’s no coincidence that the Duke of Sussex played such a…
The Official History of Freemasonry – Part 1
Traditional History The exact origin of Freemasonry is unknown and only theories try to explain its genesis and original purpose. The only certainty is…
Following in Noah’s Footsteps – Ancient and Honourable Fraternity of Royal Ark Mariner
To many Masons who do not know much about it, even to many Mark Master Masons who have not gone on to become Ark Mariners, the Royal Ark Mariner can seem to be just a quaint, short little degree about Noah’s Flood whose members wear rainbow coloured aprons. It may be attached to the Mark degree, but it is often dismissed as being of very little ritual significance.
The Official History of Freemasonry – Part 3
The “Modern” or Grand Lodge By the year 1717 there were only four lodges in the London area and the Craft was in danger of losing its traditional…
David Williamson hands role of Assistant Grand Master to Sir David Wootton
Enviable reputation With Sir David Wootton succeeding him, outgoing Assistant Grand Master David Williamson looks back at his achievements…