From the commencement of world, we may trace the foundation of Masonry. Ever since symmetry began, and harmony displayed her charms, our Order has had a being- History, however, is defined as the study of past events, its credibility is at best totally dependent upon indisputable evidence, or at the very least, beyond reasonable doubt. Often ancient evidence is tarnished with time, confused or even countered by contemporary contradiction. Moreover, the further one goes back in time, the more primitive the form of recording historical events becomes, and with it the steady decline in the distinction between fact and fiction. The origin of English Freemasonry however is reasonably well documented and evidenced. We know for instance that in the year 557AD, a man by the name of Austin, accompanied by forty monks, among whom the sciences had been preserved, came to England. Austin appeared at the head of the Fraternity in founding the old cathedral at Canterbury jn 600, Rochester in 602, St. Paul’s in London in 604, St. Peter’s and Westminster in 605. Subsequently a few expert Masons arrived in England from France in 680, and formed themselves into various lodges under the direction of Bennet, the Abbot of Wirral, who was appointed by Kenred, King of Mercia, inspector of their proceedings. These early beginnings of the Craft are without intellectual challenge, but, only by reason of the existence of the authenticated records that document the same. R. Wor. Bro. Kenneth Henry Barnes, Provincial Grand Master for Dorset in The History of Dorset Freemasonry Revealed
PGLs in General Having waited until a few articles have been written, have a look at the PGL of Glasgow’s excellent Glasgow Freemasons of Interest which gives some info on brethren in Glasgow lodges who have become well known in areas out with the Craft. For example. Willie Waddell of Rangers FC, Sir Malcolm Campbell, Sir Harry Lauder, and many others. Certainly a project that all PGLs could start.
It might also be of interest to brethren about living members (with permission) who have reached senior ranks, posts, awards, etc externally. Although not Grand Lodge directly related, this is of interest to all freemasons. 2023 marks the tercentenary of the 1723 Constitutions of the Grand Lodge in London written by Scot, James Anderson, key The creation of a dedicated website can be found at: 1723constitutions.com It will be worth keeping an eye on this as papers will continue to be added to it. There is also a section on Scotland.
Cross Keys September 2021
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