On Tuesday 12th September the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, Andrew Moule, had the solemn duty of collecting the warrant from Whitwell Lodge 2104 which was done with due ceremony; however, the evening was not entirely a solemn one. The lodge celebrated its achievements and Martin Hayton gave a short history of the start of the lodge and the eponymous Thomas Whitwell, after whom it was named.
Thomas Whitwell was a committed Quaker and inventor who variously worked with Robert Stephenson and filed several patents for his inventions for the iron industry. He was captain of the local fire brigade and founded the Cleveland Institute of Engineers.
Whitwell lodge was formed in 1885, and it was decided no alcohol would be drunk at the lodge as Thomas felt that alcohol was one of the biggest threats to society at the time.
After the sombre formalities the members retired to the dining room for their final meal, which was far from sombre, and certainly not alcohol-free as Thomas Whitwell would have preferred. The brethren showed that they were still in excellent spirits. The brethren are joining new lodges in Stockton, Billingham and as far afield as Chester-le-Street. Good luck to all!
Stronger Together
