On a fine, early summer morning at Worksop Masonic Hall, 100 people consisting of lodge officers, brethren, their ladies, family and friends gathered in the presence of the Provincial Grand Master and his wife Mrs Margaret Wilson together with other Provincial Officers and their ladies to celebrate the dedication of the new, and 3rd, Pelham Lodge Banner.

Pelham lodge was consecrated in January 1863 and although there are no records of previous banner dedications Lodge records do show that it was not until December 1876 that the 1st lodge banner was purchased at a cost of £10.10.0d. This was destroyed in the fire that burnt down the Masonic Hall in Newcastle Street in July 1911. The lodge accounts record that the 2nd banner was purchased in 1912 at a cost of £41.19.0d. This banner is to be framed and put on permanent display within the Masonic Hall.

The new banner was manufactured over a 12 month period by the banners department at Grand Lodge at a significantly greater cost to the previous one, partially met by a very generous bequest from Mrs Hancock, widow of the late Bro. Hancock of Pelham Lodge.

The lodge banner is designed with the coat of arms of the 5th Duke of Newcastle, one of its unusual features being that it is one of few Lodge Banners that does not include any Masonic emblems.

The day’s ceremonial arrangements were carried out by the Worshipful Master, W.Bro. CJD Schofield, officers and brethren of the lodge under the expert guidance of the Provincial DC, W.Bro. G Wood accompanied by The Provincial Deputy DC, W.Bro. Fitzjohn and the Provincial Tyler, W.Bro. Poole.

The Provincial Chaplain W.Bro. D E Bennett delivered an excellent and detailed oration and the dedication concluded with a closing address by the Provincial Grand Master who emphasised the importance of lodge banners and the uniqueness of their dedication, particularly now that our ladies, friends and other non Masonic guests are able to attend. The Provincial Grand Master paid special thanks to all those who had contributed to the days events.

The formal dedication was followed by a sparkling wine reception and excellent summer luncheon in the fine surroundings of the Worksop Masonic Hall Ambassador Suite.

Pictured below the Provincial Grand Master, Worshipful Master, and some of the officers and brethren of Pelham Lodge.