January saw Brethren from across Devon come together in fine style to celebrate the life and legacy of Brother Robert Burns. More than simply a Scottish supprt, Burns Night is a warm, spirited tradition that brings together poetry, music, fellowship, and good humour. All things that sit very comfortably within Freemasonry.
Burns himself was a Freemason, initiated in Lodge St David, Tarbolton, in 1781. His connection to the Craft was an important part of his life, and the values of friendship, fraternity, and shared humanity found in Freemasonry are reflected in much of his work.
Burn Night is traditionally held on or around 25th January, the anniversary of Robert Burns’ birth. A classic Burns Supper usually includes the piping in of the haggis, the recitation of the ‘Address to a Haggis’, a response, good food, toasts, songs, and readings from Burns’ poetry, often ending with singing Auld Lang Syne. It is a celebration not just of the man, but of fellowship, shared culture, and the joy of gathering together.
One such celebration took place at Manadon Masonic Hall in Plymouth, where more than 50 brethren sat down to celebrate Brother Robert Burns’ birthday. The evening features W Bro Rod Burnett as piper and also the person who delivered the Address to the Haggis. W Bro Clayton Lonie Jnr gave the haggis response. The event was organised by W Bro John Pritchard, and by all accounts it was a splendid occasion. Special congratulations go to Lorraine for a superb Burns’ Supper, thoroughly enjoyed by all present.
The photographs from the evening capture exactly what Burns Night should be. Tables full of Brethren enjoying good food and good company, the ceremonial presentation of the haggis, the unmistakable atmosphere created by the skirl of the pipes. It is a reminder that these evenings are about more than tradition for tradition’s sake. They are about friendship, continuity, and the pleasure of coming together in a shared spirit of celebration.
Elsewhere in Devon, South Molton Freemasons also marked Burns Night in their newly refurbished dining room, where 40 members and guests enjoyed a Burns Night Supper feature the piping in of the haggis and a stirring rendition of the Address to the Haggis.
What makes Burns Night so enduring is that it speaks to values that Freemasons understand well: Fraternity; Charity; Hospitality; and Respect for the bonds that unite us. Burns was a poet of humanity. He wrote of common people with dignity, wit, and affection, and that universal spirit still resonates today. It is no surprise that his memory is kept so warmly alive within Masonic circles.
The Burns Night Celebrations across Devon this year were a fine example of that living tradition. Whether in Plymouth, South Molton, or elsewhere across the county, Brethren gathered not only to honour Scotland’s national bard, but to enjoy that simple and timeless pleasure of good company around the festive board.
