Social Events

The social side of Masonry in the Westerham Lodge has always been seen as very important. This has ranged over the years from Ladies’ Nights, Charity lunches, and coach trips etc., and has embraced both Masons and non-Masons. On occasions there were difficulties in getting support for functions that had been organised, especially Ladies’ Nights, due to factors such as the age of members and distance to be traveled. On the whole however, these events have been well supported and very worth while. Freemasonry at Westerham has always been enjoyable, and social functions have long been used as a vehicle to introduce prospective candidates to the brethren .

The first Ladies’ Festival was held in the Grasshopper Inn near Westerham on the 26th March 1958, with W.Bro. Alfred Thornton presiding and with 245 guests in attendance. The then  manager of the Grasshopper, was a founder of the Lodge, and W. Bro Ian Blanthorn , Worshipful Master in this our 50th Anniversary year, was also present but not as a Mason. In addition there was also present, one of our Honorary Members, W.Bro. Earl Ashley and current member John Speake.

Over the years, the Lodge has used a number of venues for its various functions including the Fairlield Halls in Croydon, Selsdon Park Hotel again in Croydon and most frequently, The Spinning Wheel at Biggin Hill. It was here that the Lodge met for many years and where the 25th Anniversary Meeting was held. The hospitality and friendship extended by W.Bro. Danny Boatwright and his wife Joan were second to none and they are remembered with great affection by the members of Westerham Lodge.

Charity Lunches

Since 1991, Charity Lunches have played a major part in the Lodge’s social calendar. Originally there were two held during the year, one during the spring and one during December. Although both were reasonably popular, it was decided to abandon the spring gathering, and keep the December event as a Charity Christmas Lunch. In the years that the lunches have been held, a sum of over £6800.00 has been raised for various charities, both local; and national. Thanks to the raffle, (prizes donated by brethren and their guests), and ‘Stand Up Bingo’ (the prize for which is usually a child’s’ toy in the form of a model, crafted by one of the brethren or guests, ranging from a Doll’s House to a Steam train complete with Rolling Stock.

To the future

What does the future hold for us? Over the past few years Freemasonry in general has experienced a number of difficulties, not least in the retention of members. Within the Westerham
Lodge, we are committed to passing on the legacy of those brethren who have gone before us, in order that in the future the Lodge can celebrate its 100th Anniversary and we thank all those Founders, who with high ideals promoted the pattern of integrity we see within the Lodge today. We are quietly confident our membership can be retained and this objective can be achieved, if we are able to continue to attract good quality candidates and with the assistance of Past Masters, help them develop their natural talents to the fullest extent, both in the Lodge and during the discharge of their duties outside of the Lodge.

Recognising and respecting our history and all that went before will allow us to arrange, and enjoy, social as well as charity fund and raising events which will reinforce the fellowship between our Brethren, allowing us to all move towards the commons goals of Freemasonry.

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Upcoming Events