Washington Lodge celebrated their Centenary in style on Wednesday 26th October 2022, with over 80 brethren in attendance, including a full deputation led by the Provincial Grand Master, John Thompson.

Visitors arriving by car at the Birtley Masonic Hall, the venue for this special event, were welcomed by the Master of the Lodge, Kevin Bainbridge, dressed in his dayglo jacket acting as one of the car park attendants.

After the Lodge was opened and the deputation had been formally admitted, Kevin proceeded with the business of the evening which included William Surtees, a Past Master of the Lodge, reading out the Lodge history, which can be viewed in full using the link below. The Provincial Grand Master, John, then presented Kevin with the Lodge Centenary Warrant after it had been read out by Mike Davis.

Lodge History

The Provincial Chaplain, Julian Ward then dedicated a full set of Lodge regalia after which the PGM collared the Master in his chair. Kevin then took to the floor and collared his officers with their new collars.

After the Lodge was closed and suitable photos taken everyone retired to take their place at the festive board. The packed dining room enjoyed an excellent meal, brilliantly served by the staff.

In his reply to the toast to himself, John thanked the Lodge wholeheartedly for the generous cheque of £2089.00 presented to him by the Master before the Lodge was closed and he in turn presented the Lodge with their platinum festival award.

A big thank you to all at Washington Lodge for being the perfect hosts.