Who are we?

Formed in 1920, the Lodge is named after Aidan, the Apostle of Northumbria, because the first Master was vicar of the local church with that name.

Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest social and charitable organisations with roots in the traditions of the stonemasons who built Britain’s cathedrals and
castles. Operative stonemasons wore aprons and gloves to protect themselves while working on shaping rough pieces of stone and travelled to different
locations seeking work and, to distinguish themselves from unqualified builders, they used grips, words and signs. Now, instead of constructing cathedrals and
castles, Freemasons meet to build friendships and communities and use building analogies to teach members how to lead productive lives to benefit the
communities in which they live.

What we do

The ceremonies we work are unique to this lodge. We follow the Emulation Lodge of Improvement (dating back to 1823) but with nuances based on Northumberland Past Masters’ working, introduced by our founding Master, The Revd Canon Jenkin Jones, who came to Blackhill from Tyneside.

Why join us?

The current and past occupations of St Aidan’s 34 members (which include six Honorary members) are varied and include charity directors, police officers, a
National Crime Agency officer, a lawyer, an international freight export manager, a galvanizing plant manager, an auto technician specialist and a
finance director for a theological college. Several members are former servicemen, who enjoy the traditional and formal aspects of the meetings and
the social aspects of dining afterwards. Of our members, 14 are Master Masons (light blue).

Outside of family life and work, members’ other interests include Scouting, Northumbria Blood bikes, motorcycling (Widows Sons-Durham Chapter) and
church ministers and leaders.

The lodge has significantly reinvented itself in the last decade. Presently we are geared up for two candidates each year, plus an installation. We focus on well- delivered ceremonies, followed by a high-quality dining experience.