INGATESTONE LODGE No 5176 - LODGE PROFILE

 

        A brief history of our Lodge.

 

Ingatestone Lodge was consecrated on 24th March 1930 by W Bro Brig General R. Beale Colvin CB,TFD,PGD Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Provincial Grand Master for Essex at Chelmsford Shire Hall. This was sponsored by our friends The Lodge of Good Fellowship No 276.

The Lodge originally met at the Congregational Schoolroom in Ingatestone on the third Wednesday in February, April, June, September and November. It is thought maybe that many of the members were shopkeepers, as Wednesday was half day closing locally.

In April 1931 a Notice of Motion was approved to move the lodge venue to the Shire Hall Chelmsford, and the first meeting was held there on 15th April 1931.

In 1936 the venue was again changed to the purpose built Freemasons Hall, County Hotel, where they have been held ever since.

This part of the history cannot be written without reference to one of the Founding Members, WB Harry Hoy. Harry was installed into the Chair at the first meeting at the Shire Hall, and on his first meeting as Master on June 17th 1931 there were two Initiations, two Passings and two Raisings. He carried out the Passings and Initiations, including the Charge himself. Quite something for a first meeting! He did sterling work for the Lodge, being Treasurer for 28 years. It is recorded that until a year before his death in 1971, he had never missed a meeting. His great work for the Lodge is still very much appreciated and remembered.

The Founders chose the design of the Jewel to be the bridge which separated the Parish of Ingatestone from its neighbour Buttsbury, and included the Oak tree near to it. “An impression of Strength and Beauty”. The bridge and tree are still there, very much unchanged.

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The Golden Jubilee meeting was held on 24th March 1980, and the new banner dedicated. The 75th Anniversary meeting was held on 12st April 2004.

 

Lodge Details

As with all organisations, the membership has fluctuated over the years. The Lodge currently has around 30 members. The age spread had been towards the older brethren, but this has been corrected by the influx of younger new members, and is now a healthy mix of ages. The Lodge meets on the third Wednesday of January, April, June, September and November at the Chelmsford Masonic Hall Chelmsford. Lodge of Instructions are regularly held throughout the year, with occasional social events. It is a very friendly Lodge. It is noticeable in the records of how the employment of members over the years has been affected somewhat by the changing situation of Chelmsford itself, as originally a farming/market town, then a great focus on manufacturing with Hoffmann, Marconi, Crompton, etc, and it’s attendant professions. Now the current members are from a great variety of professions.

 

All Lodge matters are discussed and are decided via the general Purposes Committee

 

New members have traditionally come from friends/relatives of existing members, with an occasional referral from Province. Over the years a number of Brethren have found it fit to bring their brothers and sons into the Lodge just like the shop owners in Ingatestone of old. Records include a few Lewis members.

  We are in the fortunate position of having some excellent Officers progressing through the ranks, and should not need to rely too much on Past Masters for the “active” rolls. We have also had some joining members in recent years, and this is also an area we would like to progress.

 

The Lodge is fortunate to have good support from visitors also. 

It may be noticed that the cost of meals is marginally higher than some Lodges that hire in caterers, (but less than London Lodge dining) and we need to remember that the location is a prestigious hotel, and the quality of the food reflects this.

 

The Lodge has been active with local and National charities. Nationally we are proud to be Grand Patrons of the Essex Festival 2022, and previous Grand Patrons of the Chelmsford Cathedral Appeal, and 2011 and 2000 Festivals. We have also supported very many local charities.

 

Ingatestone Lodge is also very fortunate to be twinned and have a very close connection with Les Compagnons De Saint Druon Lodge No 234 GLNF in France. One of our members lives there and is an active member. Very enjoyable exchange visits are arranged.

 

The lodge workings are Emulation, and generally comply with that book. We do tend to share ritual among many members, new and old. We think that inclusion is better than perfection. Brethren are encouraged to work at home and also attend regular LOI’s. It is accepted that ritual is easier for some than others, but if the effort is put in, the performance will be acceptable to the members.

 

Masonic Education

We are looking at improving the way we transmit Masonic education. The lodge has an official Mentor and Membership Officer and many knowledgeable members. The information provided by Pathway will assist with this, along with the necessary appointments. We also consider talks/lectures as time allows. 

Communication is via email, with just a couple of members receiving hard copy. The Lodge has a WhatsApp group, and used Zoom to stay in touch during the difficult covid times.

A full festive board follows each meeting, and full toasts are given.

 

Charity

We have a very active Charity Steward. He arranges the use of gift aid envelopes to get maximum benefit for the relief chest. Charitable donations are decided at GP Meetings and processed according to bylaws/BOC.

 

 

Costs and fees.

 

Costs and fees are available on application. These are set pro- rata pending when the member joins the Lodge during our financial year'.

These are due 1st April by cheque, bank transfer, cash. Monthly payments can be arranged. 

Additional costs to be considered are meals, raffles, etc.

Although charitable donations are encouraged, they are completely voluntary.

 

New members can expect to receive friendship and fellowship, but are expected to fully support the Lodge and attend meetings and LOI’s whenever they can; however it is accepted that family and work commitments take priority, but we do expect to be kept informed. We only expect members to take on duties or Offices that they are completely comfortable with, and encouragement not pressure is applicable.

They can expect a friendly welcome into Ingatestone Lodge and have a future growing within the Lodge and within themselves.