1303 Centenary Celebrations

The former head of the Masonic fraternity in Scotland returned to his family roots in Clackmannan for a 100th anniversary celebration.

Past Grand Master Joseph John Morrow CBE KStJ KC DL FRSE and currently Lord Lyon King of Arms, headed a fine deputation from the Grand Lodge of Scotland to rededicate Lodge Clackmannan No. 1303.

The ceremony was held in the premises of Lodge St. Servanus No. 771 in Alva to accommodate the large number attending the ceremony and the dinner that followed.

The Lodge was granted its charter on 1st February 1923 and was consecrated on the 24^th February 1923. A committee of Lodge members planned the Centenary celebrations over the last few years including identifying premises that could cater for the 140 guests.

The current Master, Brother Donald I. McLean, welcomed the Past Grand Master Brother Joe Morrow, to the Lodge’s temporary home for the special occasion.

Brother Morrow 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 McLean took an obligation on behalf of the Brethren of Lodge Clackmannan No. 1303 and after a dedication of regalia he was clothed with his masonic apron, jewel, sash and gauntlets.

Past Master, Brother Rob Collins of The Lodge of Portlethen No. 1805, gave an excellent history on the foundations of Lodge Clackmannan No. 1303.

Then Brother Morrow spoke fondly of his family connections with Clackmannan and said how pleased he was that the Grand Master Mason was on Masonic duties in India thereby allowing him to lead the deputation. He added that as an Honorary Member he would have attended anyway!

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

At the conclusion, a cheque was presented to Grand Lodge Benevolent Fund of £1000

An excellent dinner followed the formal proceedings with speeches and toasts from RWM Brother McLean and 1303 Past Masters Thomas White and Robert Hunter

There were also speeches from the Past Grand Master, the Provincial Grand Master, Brian Aitken DM of 1303 and Robert Easton Lodge St John Auchterarder No 46.

RWM Bro. Mclean with Past Grand Master Bro Joe Morrow	RWM Bro. Mclean with Provincial Grand Master Bro Gordon Sewell
RWM Bro McLean with the Office Bearers and Brethren of the Lodge