MASONIC 150^th ANNIVERSARY

MASONS have celebrated the 150^th anniversary of the founding of Lodge Abercromby in Bridge of Allan.

The rededication ceremony was carried out by The Grand Lodge of Scotland in a special event held at Stirling County Rugby Football Club.

The Lodge, which has the number 531on the roll of Grand Lodge, was granted its charter on 3rd February 1873. A committee of Lodge members planned the 150^th celebrations over the last few years including identifying premises that could cater for the 150 guests.

The current Master, Brother William Wilson, welcomed the Depute Grand Master Brother William Gauld to the Lodge’s temporary home for the special occasion.

Brother Gauld and other members of The Grand Lodge of Scotland carried out a dignified ceremony and just as had been done at the original dedication gave blessings of corn, wine and oil.

Brother Wilson took an obligation on behalf of the Brethren of Lodge Abercromby No. 531 and after a dedication of regalia he was clothed with his masonic apron, jewel, sash and gauntlets.

The Lodge Secretary, Brother Robert Stewart, gave an excellent history on the foundations of Lodge Abercromby No. 531giving much of the credit to two members of the Lodge of Dunblane No. IX who were Bridge of Allan residents, local chemist Gilbert Farie and surgeon Peter Campbell.

In addition to the visitors from Grand Lodge there was also a large deputation from the Provincial Grand Lodge of Stirlingshire headed by PG Master Bro. Gordon Sewell and masonic members from lodges all over Scotland.

At the conclusion, a collection for the Scottish Masonic Homes raised £700.

An excellent dinner followed the formal proceedings with speeches and toasts from RWM Brother Wilson and 531 Past Masters John Mitchell, John Don, Alistair Mackay, Iain McMillan and IPM Richard McConnell.

There were also speeches from the Depute Grand Master, the Provincial Grand Master, Brother David Brown, the Master of Lodge Stirling Royal Arch No. 76 and Brother Andrew Goodwin, a Past Master of Lodge Zetland No. 391.

Thanks to Brother Archie Mackay for text.

Office Bearers and Brethren of Lodge Abercromby No 531

RWM Brother William Wilson with Depute Grand Master Brother William Gauld and Provincial Grand Master Brother Gordon WS Sewell