On the Monday 8th April 2024, Duncombe Lodge No. 1486 meeting at Kingsbridge, celebrated its 150th Anniversary with a celebratory Meeting to commemorate the event.
The Lodge welcomed the Provincial Grand Master, R.W.Bro. Nicholas Ball, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, W.Bro. Andrew Vodden MBE and many other distinguished guests including all seven of the Lodge’s Honorary Members, led by R.W.Bro. Michael Penny, Past Provincial Grand Master, and the Worshipful Masters of all six of the Lodges with whom the Lodge has fraternal relations.
As part of the celebratory meeting W.Bro. Andrew Hall, Provincial Senior Grand Warden Elect read the Original Warrant of the Lodge.
This was followed by the Lodge Secretary, W.Bro. Bill Grahamslaw, PAGDC, who provided a review of the Lodge’s history with particular reference to the Lodge Building and also its membership since the Lodge was founded. He concluded with details of the Lodge’s recent history, emphasising its very laudable connection with the town of Kingsbridge, demonstrated by its ongoing commitment to local worthy causes.
With 55 members, and a long-standing reputation for excellent ritual, he regarded the Lodge as both healthy and a worthy example of everything that is useful in Masonry.
The Provincial Grand Chaplain. W.Bro. Adrian Rogers, Provincial Grand Chaplain then delivered a most enthralling address, combining extracts of the original Oration given in 1874 with a Patriarchal Benediction as befitting the celebration that day.
Finally, the Provincial Grand Master was presented with an inscribed Charging Glass by the Worshipful Master, W.Bro. James Rowland to commemorate the Anniversary.
Those present later dined at West Charleton Village Hall where everyone enjoyed a magnificent Festive Board in a vibrant and memorable atmosphere.
Pictures taken on the day by W.Bro. John Smerdon PAGDC can be viewed by clicking on the Link below:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/jo6bGrs23caz8C1V8
W.Bro. Bill Grahamslaw PAGDC – Lodge Secretary 1486