THE HISTORY OF LODGE KNIGHTSWOOD
GLASGOW NO. 1445

THE HISTORY OF LODGE

KNIGHTSWOOD GLASGOW No. 1445

History Compiled by - Bro. John G Williamson PM 1445
and Bro. Derek N. Christie MM - 1445

Assisted by -        Bro. James V. Brooke PM 1445

The RWM - Gilbert Morrison & Office Bearers of Lodge Knightswood 1445 - 2009
and Our Friends from Lodge St James Newton-upon-Ayr No. 125

The History of Lodge Knightswood 1445

At the start of this century Knightswood was mostly farm land, with a golf course, and it wasn’t until after 1927 that Glasgow Corporation decided to extend its boundaries, starting from Anniesland and moving westwards.

As was stated in the history of Glasgow, the crusaders and Knights Templers set up camps in this area, hence the names of some of the roads and streets :- Arrowsmith, Monksbridge, Herald, Athelstane, Crusader, Pikeman, and Priory Road, where Lodge Knightswood still meets.

During the 1935-45 War, a number of brethren residing in Knightswood were members of the War Reserve Force, some special Constables and others either in A.R.P. or A.F.S. and discussions often took place on many quiet evenings in the Wardens post at the corner of Alderman Road and Lincoln Avenue about the possibility of starting up a new lodge in the area, and by 1948 the seeds then sown were beginning to grow.

The first ‘called’ meeting of those brethren interested in the founding of a new Masonic Lodge was held in Bankhead School, Caldwell Avenue, on October 1948 and at a subsequent meeting on February 18th 1949, the decision was then made to proceed with a petition to the Grand Lodge of Scotland, to grant a charter in favour of Lodge Knightswood Glasgow.

Brother John Howe Brownlie, a member of Speirs of Elderslie No. 1207, Lodge Possilpark No. 1330 and Lodge Western No. 1346 was appointed Master designate. It was agreed that the Initiation fee be £10.10s, Test fees 10/- the clothing to be Royal Blue and Gold and the lodge to meet on the 1st and 3rd Friday, September to May, and the 1st  Friday in June. Both Lodge Kelvin Partick No. 1207 and Lodge St John Whiteinch No. 683, agreed to sponsor the proposed new lodge.

As there was no suitable meeting place available in Knightswood it was decided that the Lodge should meet in the Whiteinch Burgh (lesser) hall, but owing to the fact that there was no storage space in the Burgh hall, arrangements were made by some Brethren who were policemen and founder members, for all paraphernalia of the Lodge to be stored in a police cell in Whiteinch Police Station, which was just around the corner from the Burgh hall. Consequently, before every meeting the furniture etc. had to be carried round from the Police station the Lodge set up, and after the meeting taken back again, - rain, hail or shine.

By the time the petition was sent to the Provincial Grand Lodge of Glasgow there were 77 Brethren on the roll of founder members, one under an Irish constitution, representing 42 lodges and 8 provinces, 6 were past masters and of the original 77 members 12 of these eventually reached the chair of the Lodge. The charter was granted on November 3rd 1949 and the number 1445.

The Consecration and Erection of the Lodge took place at a special meeting of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Glasgow, held in Whiteinch (large) Public hall on December 9th 1949, by the Provincial Grand Master, Brother Donald McKay Kerr, assisted by Provincial Grand Lodge Office Bearers.

The Provincial Grand Master opened Lodge Knightswood and installed Brother John Howe Brownlie as master of the lodge. The Wardens and other office bearers were installed and invested by Depute Provincial Grand Master, Brother, Dr. Anderson McMillan.
The first five applicants were initiated on February 3rd 1950; among them was Brother James V. Brooke Jnr. who became the first initiate to occupy the chair of the Lodge in 1961-62.
The Lodge of instruction met for the first time on January 12th 1951 and continues to meet once every month, thus maintaining the high standard of ceremonial set by the founder members. In the early days of the lodge the instruction class made frequent visits to other Lodges both within and out with the Province for Masonic education, consequently, many new connections were made, which still exist to this day, Lodge St James Newton-upon Ayr No.125 being the oldest.

The first chain of office (silver) to be worn by the master was presented on November 25th 1952. A second chain of Office, which is solid Gold, was made by Past Master, Brother James P Masterton, who was a founder member and a member of Lodge Glasgow No. 441, and Lodge Abercrombie No. 1430, and who occupied the chair of Lodge Knightswood in 1958-59. This chain was presented to the Lodge on April 17th 1953. The first chain, which is silver gilt, is worn by the immediate past master. Incidentally brother Masterton also made Lodge Partick St. Mary’s No. 117 master’s gold chain.

The Lodge moved to Cloberhill School on August 21st 1953, having met for the last time in Whiteinch hall on June 23rd 1953. The installation however continued to be held in the Whiteinch (large public hall) until 1961. This move to Cloberhill School was largely by the assistance of the then Janitor, Past Master, Brother Gus Collins, lodge Royal Stuart No.1414. This move meant that we had no problems in the storing of our rapidly increasing paraphernalia.

The main problem was during our degree work we had to compete with the Boys Brigade pipe band playing in the lower hall below our meeting place. Incidentally the Coy. Captain at that time was Walter Sword, who later joined the Lodge to become Master in 1966-67.
At the regular meeting on February 19th 1954, stalls for the master and wardens were presented to the lodge, this being the Annual Provincial visitation. The stalls and chairs of Office were dedicated by the Brother, Rev Gordon M. Ewan, Provincial Grand Chaplin.

At the Annual Installation on December 2nd 1955, reference was made to the fact that this was the first occasion on which two past masters of the lodge had conferred the Installation ceremony. In 1956 Brother James P. Scobie was Master of the Lodge and took a very active part in the formation of the Western districts lodges association.

The founder members and early initiates were very conscious in trying to find our own premises. The first attempt was vacant plot at the end of Alderman Road and Anniesland Road, but the Corporation Housing department, were not for parting to us and subsequently a Gospel hall was built on the site. The second attempt was a large house in old Anniesland Road, which had been used as flats by the Housing Department. Some of brethren were in favour, but some of the elder brethren were against, consequently we withdrew our interest.

When Past master, Brother, Gus Collins (Janitor Cloberhill School) retired about 1960, and a new Janitor appointed our freedom was severely restricted.  The Corporation decided at that time, that from August 1962 the School would become an RC primary School.

This decision prompted an urgent search for other premises, when out of the blue we received word that the Salvation Army Hall in Priory Road was up for sale.

After a number of meetings of the general Management committee it was decided to put in an offer for the premises. Due to the efforts of brother, William Leslie, Provincial Grand Secretary, in getting the Salvation Army Lawyer to change a section of the title deeds, which stated, ”That the hall could only be used for religious services”, we were to purchase the hall for Approximately  £3.500.00.

 The reconstruction of the main hall got under way, and was altered to suit our requirements, an extra floor at the rear, to provide ladies toilets etc., was all undertaken by voluntary labour, the support given, not only by brethren of Lodge Knightswood, but other Lodges, was greatly appreciated.

Once more the Lodge was on the move, meeting for the last time in Cloberhill School on June 1st 1962.

The summer recess saw great activity getting ready for the next general meeting to be held to be held in the newly acquired hall in Priory road on August 17th 1962. Brother James V Brooke Jnr. the first initiate Master being in the chair, and one of the prime movers in the purchase of the new premises.

To carry out the alterations, money had to be raised for materials, and equipment etc. and this was done by running prize draws, coffee mornings, and other fund raisers. Right Worshipful Master, Brother James V. Brooke Jnr. was approached by the late Mr & Mrs Talbot’ Crosbie and was invited to meet them. They proved to be most generous benefactors to the Lodge, so much so Mrs Talbot-Crosbie was invited to open a Bazaar in the autumn of 1962.

It is to the Lodge’s credit and all Brethren concerned that the debt incurred in the purchase, was finally cleared by Brother Arthur Currie during his year as Master in 1964.

On October 13th 1962, the new hall, reconstructed and redecorated, was rededicated by Brother Ernest Noaks, Provincial Grand Master, assisted by Brother, Rev. Henry J French and other office bearers of Provincial Grand Lodge, but before this ceremony, Honorary membership was conferred on 7 brethren from other lodges by our Right Worshipful Master, James V. Brooke Jnr, for all their assistance in the work of reconstructing the new hall.

The seven brethren who received Honorary Membership of the Lodge for the services and assistance they rendered in the renovation of the hall were: - Bro. A. Bain, B.B. No.1341;  Bro. G. Bowman, Stwd. No.1304;  Bro. D.B. Brooke, M.M. No.1207;  Bro. A. Collie, Tyler No. 1243;  Bro. E.G. Currie, M.M. No.117;  Bro. D.S. Ferguson, I.P.M. No.1341;  Bro. A. McIlwraith, M.M. No.782.

There is also a five page memo in the Lodge archives, written by Bro. James V. Brooke, who was Right Worshipful Master at the time, and in it he thanks and pays tribute to all the brethren of Lodge Knightswood and many other Lodges, who gave of their services and skills in various trades to help get our fine Lodge Hall in Priory Road up and running.

Bro. James actually names each individual and mentions their particular trade and thanks them for their own part in helping in the refurbishment of the new hall.

The Lodge continues to prosper and a high standard of ceremonial work was maintained. The social functions held under the auspices of the Lodge were many and varied, and numerous fund raising schemes to meet our ever rising costs of maintenance, repairs and improvements were inaugurated.

On December 15th 1972 the Lodge was honoured by a visit to our premises of the Grand Master Mason of Scotland, Brother David Liddell- Granger of Ayton.

 1974 was the 25th Anniversary of the founding of the Lodge; Brother James T E McIsaac was Master. The years between had been no means uneventful, but that year was one of great activity.

On November 16th 1974, the Lodge met in the Masonic hall, Priory Road, and in the presence of a large number of Lodge members and deputations from many sister Lodges, the Master welcomed Depute Provincial Grand Master Brother Brian G Brown, and a distinguished deputation of Provincial office bearers, including Brother, Rev John M. Stewart, Provincial Grand Chaplin.

The rededication ceremony was conducted in a most impressive manner and in accordance with the ancient customs and usages of Freemasonry.

After the Rededication Ceremony, a celebration dinner was held in the Boulevard Hotel, Great Western Road, when the usual toasts were given and ably replied to, the lodge having achieved a great deal during its 25 years of existence.

On the 7th of September 1975, Brother William Salduk, Right Worshipful Master, organised what proved to the start of the joint charity efforts of the Western Districts Lodges, with a sponsored walk from lodge Knightswood’s hall to the Kirk House Inn, Strathblane,(for a cup of tea) and back to Knightswood, - a total distance of 20 miles. Six reigning masters took part, which was in aid of the Muscular Dystrophy Charity, and raised approximately £300.00.

That year Brother Peter Seaton Past master was made an Honorary Provincial Depute Grand Master, Brother Peter was a founder member of the Lodge, being the first senior Warden, his mother Lodge was lodge Kelburne (Millport) No. 459. Brother Seaton was one of the most active Freemasons in the Western District, not only in his adopted lodge but in Provincial Grand Lodge, and many other orders, particularly Partick Royal Arch.

In 1982 he was made an Honorary Grand Junior Warden for his services to freemasonry, an honour well deserved. Brother Peter was called to the Grand Lodge above on November 1991, after 74 years a member of the craft, being initiated into his Mother Lodge, Kelburne No. 459 in 1917, - a truly remarkable record.

In 1979 RWM Brother John Williamson introduced a Lodge Indoor Sports Night with Indoor Bowls, Darts Dominoes etc. and highlighted by a portion of Stevie Wilson’s Mushie Peas. I was held every Wednesday and was instrumental in introducing several new members.

Brother John also organised our first Olde Tyme Musical Hall Night, which included magic, music and comedy, with the atmosphere being really enhanced by the audience all dressed up in Ole Tyme clothes. Brother John also arranged a “Night of Magic” show in the 700 seat Large Partick Burgh Hall, again calling on some of his friends from the world of entertainment. This raised a considerable amount of money, which was split between the Lodge and the SCA Magic Club.
           
 1980 was a special year for the Lodge as Brother Henry Jeffrey, Past Master who occupied the chair in 1967-68, and during the years since he joined the Lodge had done a tremendous amount of work, not only for another lodge but also for Provincial, in raising money for their funds, and the refurbishment of 100 West Regent Street, which unfortunately  after all his hard work was sold off,  was made an Honorary Grand Standard bearer for his efforts, and that same year he was commissioned as a Substitute Provincial Grand Master, an honour to the lodge.

In 1983 the kitchen facilities were upgraded and the bar was completely rebuilt at some considerable cost and with a great deal of voluntary labour. This investment has proved worthwhile. The following year, the lodge hall was completely refurbished, making the envy of many and asset for the future.

In 1984, Brother Arthur Currie Past master, was given the rank of Honorary Grand Junior Deacon, brother Currie was master of the lodge 1963-64, being initiated in 1951, and has been an active member over the years. He was Secretary from 1966 until 1971 and Treasurer from 1975 to 1983, and reaching the office of Provincial Grand Senior Warden in 1987.

Over the years many wonderful relationships with Lodges out with the province of Glasgow were established. Those surviving the ravages of time being, lodge of St James, Newton upon-Ayr No. 125, lodge Buchan St Johns, Broxburn No. 636, and lodge Baillie Nichol Jarvie, Aberfoyle No. 1036.

1988 was an eventful year for the Lodge, Brother Stephen Wilson was Master, and on the 12th of March, he arranged for a deputation to travel to Aberdeen, to Visit Lodge St Machar No.54 and confer a Master Mason Degree. Lodge St. Machar meet in the beautiful Masonic Temple in Crown Street, and it was an honour for Lodge Knightswood to carry out the ceremonial work in such magnificent surroundings. (A gift of Master Mason mirrors from Lodge St Machar No. 54 still hang in our Temple behind the organ, to this day) Then on 14th October another visit North to lodge St Ninian No. 575, Nairn, to confer another Master Mason Degree, added to our list wonderful Masonic friendships, which we hope will continue to flourish, and speed brotherly love throughout the land.

1989/90 We celebrated our 40th year, with many special functions, capped by the honour of having our own Past Master, Brother Henry Jeffrey being elected and installed as Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master of Glasgow. Brother Henry had worked diligently for the craft, and this was an honour well justified.

Lodge Knightswood is one of the very few lodges that can claim the distinction of having two of its Brethren Installed Provincial Grand Masters; the other brother is Alex Gibson Anderson who was a founder member and a member of Lodge Cochno No.1304. He was Provincial Grand Master of Dunbartonshire from 1967-1971, unfortunately Brother Alex passed to the Grand Lodge above during his term in office.

 The founders set out in faith and hope and many who follow ever act in a manner befitting the dignity of the Craft, and continue the building of a wise, a strong and Harmonious Lodge, - “so mote it be”.

The Lodge Crest

The crest is Shield, which is the Volume of sacred Law open, with the square and compasses thereon, over the Volume of the sacred law is the representation of the porch of the temple with three pillars, Wisdom, Strength and Beauty.

On the shield, the top quarter has the Masonic pavement, with the seven stars, which make a lodge perfect, the blazing sun and the gavel in the centre.

Below the Masonic pavement is the main “field”, which represents the open spaces and the green belt of Knightswood, the band through the centre represents a stream or burn, which was known as the Garscadden Burn.

The three trees represent the original wooded area, the tree on the left, with the bird, fish, and bell represents Glasgow coat of arms. The helmet represents the knights Templers, plus two thistles on either side.

RWM James Connelly - and Office Bearers 1993-94
with Provincial Grand Master Bro. Henry Jeffrey

PGM Henry Jeffrey, RWM James Connelly, PM James Brooke, PM Arthur Currie

Recollections of Days Gone By

Our Past Masters’

60 year’s worth of Memories

Lecture on Lodge history.

By James V Brooke pm

Jim was the first initiate of the Lodge, his two brothers being numbers two and three, his father being a charter member.

 The Lodge was consecrated on 9th December 1949 but our beginnings started during WW2.  At the corner of Lincoln Ave and Alderman Rd there was an ARP post manned 24/7, one of the members was Bro Matt Pagan. It was the custom for members of the police, fire service and other bodies to stop in for a quiet smoke and a ‘crack’. It was during these interludes that Masonry was discussed and the notions of forming a Lodge took place.

The decision was taken to form a Lodge and the services of Provincial Grand Lodge was sought for the names of members of the Craft, for some unknown reason Provincial dragged their feet in providing this information, however success prevailed and the Lodge was set up. 

It is interesting to note that the majority of our Founders were resident t in Alderman Road and the side streets off it. There was a fair sprinkling of members of St David’s Church ex members of the 237 the Boys Brigade

 Our meeting place was the lesser hall of Whiteinch Burgh Hall, unfortunately there was no storage space available but here our connection with the Police paid off and we had the use of a cell in the local nick which was just around the corner from the hall.

 Regrettably, there were no cameras in those days to record the antics of the members carrying our carpet and two large laundry baskets of paraphernalia between the nick and the hall before and after the meetings.

 Our degree work was in the hands of our Founders, Past Masters of other Lodges, Bros Stephen McArthur, Sanny Young and James Robson and others. In those days there was little chance of a degree in the short form, if it was a third, then it was generally not before 11 PM that it finished, when the was a scatter to catch the last tram to Clydebank .

During Bro. Matt Pagan’s term I received a ‘phone call instructing me to call at a local factor’s office and pick up a set of keys. On enquiring more, I was told in no uncertain terms to do as I was bid and that my father would pick me up at 7 o’clock.

That evening all was made clear. The keys were for what we had known as the haunted house in Anniesland Road, which had lain empty for some time before being requisitioned during World War 2 for housing.

Several Brethren were in attendance and reached the conclusion that subject to some alterations, it could fit our needs.

The prospect was fully discussed but got no further. Our founder members all lived in rented housing and the thought of buying property was too daunting and so the prospect was a no go.

The property ultimately went to the British Legion for £750. In due course, when the developer for the present Knightswood shopping centre approached the British Legion to purchase the building, they fought for and won a tremendous deal that provided them with existing halls and club premises in Kirkton Avenue and Cairntoul. - - I often wonder if that could have been our Lodge premises……
 Through the good graces of Bro. Gus Collins, PM of the Royal Stuart Lodge, who was janitor of Cloberhill Primary School in Gt. Western Road, we moved there, to the upper floor gym. Our furniture in those days consisted of card tables with blue drapes; Bro. Andrew Cowie produced a board with the lights and emblems etc.

Whilst we had the upper gym the local Boys Brigade had the lower, usually around 8 o’clock their pipe band started up, try to imagine what it was, like trying to confer a degree with the racket going on. But we prevailed. 

The tables were ultimately turned when the BB Captain Walter Sword joined the Lodge, later to become a PM.   - - Our ‘sit’ in Cloberhill was a happy one

 During Bro John McIsaac’s term as Master, Gus Collins retired, a relief janitor was appointed and that was the end of our happy days. The Corporation announced that in August 1962 the school would become a catholic primary.

My thoughts were if I were the Master where would we be?  - Sitting in the middle of Gt Western Road with all our paraphernalia, homeless???

 As luck would have it Bro. Arthur Currie, my next door neighbour came to me one Saturday morning with an item from the Glasgow Herald announcing the sale of the Salvation Hall in Priory Rd, no indication of price was stated. Bro John Mc Isaac called a number of the Brethren together and we met at the hall on the Sunday, we had no keys but from the outside it looked promising.

The Solicitor was in Edinburgh, I was instructed to make contact to obtain keys.  The hall had been disused for some time and it was as the Salvation Army had left it, all the furnishings etc.

We decide to make an approach to the Solicitor whom I found quite amenable, after several discussions we offered £3500....

We had the hall but how to pay for it, we had little cash, by using what funds we had and the aid of the Manager of the Royal Bank in  Partick, where our account was, he offered an overdraft providing the title was invested in the name of the Royal Bank . Incidentally the titles are still in name of the Royal Bank.

At this time fund raising was of prime importance, and the womenfolk rallied round running functions to raise cash, - they did very well.

I was approached if I would be prepared to meet someone who may be able to help us, in due course I met Mr Talbot Crosbie (Lord Glandower) a prominent business man. He enquired of our financial status in depth and the outcome was that I received a cheque for £1250, which was gratefully received and very much appreciated.

 To Bro Arthur Currie’s credit, he set himself a target that while in the Chair if the Lodge he would clear off our overdraft, which he did.

 A set of drawings was prepared showing the alterations necessary for Masonic purposes, these were submitted to the authorities who delayed approval because they found our title was not clear. The original Salvation Army  title specified that the building be used for purely Christian purposes, they  were duly altered and passed and building work got underway.
 
The Brethren of the Lodge rallied round using their various trades and we also had tremendous assistance from other members of the craft of other Lodges.

In fact their aid was recognised on the occasion of the dedication of the hall when they received honorary membership of our Lodge

 When the inspection committee of Provincial Grand Lodge called their immediate reaction was, ‘you must have curtains to the hall windows’ which we had not budgeted for.

Nevertheless the womenfolk rallied round once again I was directed to Lewis’s in Argyle Street, where a large bolt of royal blue material had been ordered for us. The sewing machines were busy and the ladies presented us with our curtains, so keeping Provincial happy.

Or first meeting was held on the third Friday in August 1962, Provincial Grand Lodge rededicated our hall on Saturday 13th October 1962 with Bro Ernest Noakes PGM in the chair. At that particular meeting I was privileged as Right Worshipful Master, to be able to confer Honorary Membership on seven brethren from various other lodges, who had given of their services in the building and refurbishment of the hall.

 In the early days it was felt desirable to have a masters’ chain of office, and to this end we started to collect silver objects of all shapes and sizes, even my grannies silver teaspoons went into the pot.

We finally had a chain in Matt Pagan’s year as RWM, and he most certainly showed that chain around. Also in his year at the PGL visitation, Bro Bob Hastie a commercial artist produced a programme illustrating the senior office bearers in cartoon form. (photocopies can be seen in and around the archives)

Incidentally Bro Hastie produced our tracing board for the second degree, which is still in use today.

In due course it was decided to have a gold master’s chain and a collection was started for old gold. Sufficient was gathered and the chain was made by Bro James Masterton.  The new gold chain was to be the Masters, with the silver gilt being the IPMs.

 Bro. James Masterton was a true craftsman; it was he who made the office bearers jewels and many other symbols.

 I passed comment earlier on our lack of furniture, but that fact was remedied whilst still at Cloberhill School. Bro. Bob Dewar’s middle son Bert was a woodmill manager in Burma, and he made the Master’s and Warden’s stalls, sending them home in knocked down form for our members to assemble. The chairs for the stalls came by the courtesy of Bro. John Thom from a liner being broken up by Arnott Young at Dalmuir.

The Master today wears Bob Dewar‘s Past Masters Jewel, which was returned after his passing.

Other personalities among the Founder members that spring to my mind and worthy of mention are, - Alex Gibson Anderson PM lodge Corker No.1504 who became Provincial Grand Master of Dunbartonshire mid 60s
Ernie Walker (Policeman) assay marker Glasgow rep for the Edinburgh, which is stamped on the Masters chain. - George McKlintoch 1018 Barns o Clyde, was the co-op butcher on Alderman Road
David Cuthbert, who became Master in 1957/58 was a Joiner, whose services were invaluable.
Robert Lambie Hastings (Graphic Artist), painted the tracing Board 2nd Degree.
James (Jimmy) P Masterton PM made every office bearers jewel and also made the Mallet for James V Brooke, which is still used today. -His brother David Masterton said to him that his brother Jimmy did not complete the Mallet as he had died, and it was he that finished it for him. This is now the Lodge Ceremonial Mallet.
Jimmy Robson PM (was installing master for many years) until 1973. Jimmy Robson and his son of the same name were the only Father and Son that could carryout a full degree on their own.

RWM James V Brooke 1961-62

RWM James V Brooke & Past Masters 1961-62

Some of my recollections of Lodge Knightswood

Bro John G. Williamson PM

I’ve been asked to try to fill in some of the more ‘Social’ events and memories that I have of almost 40 years in the Lodge and I must say that there are far more than would fill several history books, so I will try to relate the things that particularly stick in my mind and bring a smile to my face and often a lump to my throat.

My first recollections of Lodge Knightswood were the impressive hymn singing and music that completely took me by surprise at my initiation, as I had no idea of what freemasonry was all about and certainly didn’t associate it with such amazing singing and music.

I thought I would know only my proposer and seconder, but on being brought to light I saw many faces I recognised from our local church and indeed one of the Past Masters, George Donaldson approached me and asked if I liked the ceremony and the music and when I answered, “Yes”, he said he had a special job for me and immediately took me to the old ‘bellows’ type of organ. He was the organist at that time and said that I’d be a great organist for the Lodge.

I explained that I didn’t play the organ and he surprised me by telling me that he was the father of one of the boys in the Boys Brigade Company where I was staff Member and that he had heard me play the piano at the Bible Class and at various concerts etc. and that playing the organ in the Lodge would be dead easy.

So from my early days in the Lodge I was privileged to play the organ for the hymns and ceremonial part of the meetings. The piano also featured at our harmonies, which were extremely entertaining and full of some amazing talent. These tremendous ‘Harmonies’ were another amazing part of Freemasonry in Lodge Knightswood that really surprised me and have stuck in my mind ever since.

It wasn’t long before I took my guitar along to the Lodge and we had many a wonderful ‘sing-song’ until the early hours after meetings.

In those early days on the 1970’s the Social Convener of the Lodge was responsible for arranging the social events, which included the Harmony in the Lodge and also the regular monthly dances, which brought all the Brethren and their wives and girlfriends together every month.

The social convener that I remember most was Bro. Alex Wright, the younger brother of Past Master Johnnie Wright. I had assisted Alex on the social committee and because Alex idea of an amplifier in the lodge was deemed to be out of the question, he asked me if I could get my hands on a second hand one without anyone knowing. At that time, I was an entertainer in the ‘Clubs’ and said that I could, but that they were quite expensive.

However, Alex was determined to enhance the Lodge harmonies and our main events with an amplifier, and he used to take a little bit each month from the small profit made at the dances and give it to me to bank until we had enough to purchase a second-hand Marshall Amp.

Of course, an amplifier requires to have ‘Speakers’ and I recall my father and I wiring up two of my loud speakers at either end of the hall, which allowed us to have both guitar and microphone sockets at both ends of the hall. This really enhanced the Lodge harmonies and my guitar in the corner became a regular feature for several years.

I also recall a small band that we created in the Lodge with myself on guitar, Ricky Campbell on bass guitar, Jackie Brown on drums and John Wilson on trumpet.

Such was the talent within the Lodge that under the direction of a really talented musician Brother John Paterson, an ex Police Superintendent, we created an excellent choir, which became a feature of the Lodge ceremonies and major events. John Paterson also formed a ‘Barber’s Shop Quartet’ consisting of John himself, Brother Ronnie Inch, Brother Harry Jeffrey and me. This was so much fun, as rehearsals and performances were always followed and often accompanied by liquid refreshment to keep our voices in good order.

Two particular memories of the choir stand out from the host of others and the first is the sound of “Abide With Me” being sung in four part harmony during our third degree ceremonial and the other was one Christmas about 3 o’clock in the morning the choir and the rest of the Brethren gathered around the piano singing Christmas Carols. It still brings a lump to my throat.

However, the most memorable year for me was the Lodge year of 1978 – 79, when I had the honour and privilege of being elected as Right Worshipful Master. It allowed me to attempt a few things that would hopefully be enjoyable and memorable events for everyone associated with the Lodge.

As a result of my contacts in the world of entertainment, I was able to put an “Olde Tyme Musical” event that mixed our own talent with some of my professional friends. We set up a small stage and borrowed suitable lighting from the local centre and the brethren and their wives and partners turned out in force, all suitably dressed in “Olde Tyme Music Hall” garb.

For the brethren and their friends, I got Bro Stevie Wilson senior to organise a weekly Sports Night, where every Wednesday evening we enjoyed Indoor Bowls, Darts, Dominoes, Pool etc. and also had a feast of Stevie’s Special “Mushie Peas” – Superb!

 During the later half of my year as Master I booked the 700 seat Partick Burgh Hall to try to raise funds for both the Lodge and The Scottish Conjurers Association, which was the Magic Club that I had been associated with for many years. We put on a show entitled, “A Night of Magic”, which included Magic, Music, Dancing, Singing and Comedy and proved to be a great success.

During the 1980’s I recall a major change in the social side of the Lodge and in our finances, when through my business contacts with two of the leading Breweries, I was able to negotiate a grant, which allowed us to extend and upgrade the bar area and the seating within the Lodge.

Around this time we also managed to acquire the old central heating system from the Provincial Grand Lodge hall in West Regent Street and after much trial and error and lots of blood sweat and tears, it was finally up and running and has provided warmth to this day.

Around the late 1980’s I was eager to replace the old “Bellows Type” organ, which was prone to making an awful squeaking noise during a quiet rendering of some solemn ceremonial music, and I was able to donate my old Yamaha Organ to the Lodge, and it’s been great to see that it has served us for about 30 years and hopefully still has a few more years of sound left in her.

There are numerous other events that have fond memories for me and I’m sure many of the older brethren and their wives, a few of which were the long weekend trips to Aberfoyle, Oban, Rothesay,  and Arran, organised by the irrepressible Brother John Wilson PM. The wealth of fun and laughter that these weekends provided would fill a book in themselves and possibly some of the stories would get us arrested. All those who attended will have a host of tales to tell and fond memories that will last a lifetime.

Our monthly dances in the Lodge continued for many years with special fancy dress nights at various occasions throughout the years, again providing some wonderful memories for the brethren and their wives and partners, and again organised by John Wilson and John Smith.

I could go on, as the memories keep flooding back. However, to pluck just a few of the memorable social events from our history is essential before I finish, in order to stir the memory banks of some of the older brethren.

First of all, I must make mention of our Burns Suppers, which became renowned under the direction and supervision of the inimitable late Brother Walter Sword. People came from far and wide to our Burns Suppers and indeed still do to this day and I’m sure will continue to do so under the organisational skills of brothers Alex McLauchlan and Charlie Anderson.

The Lodge was always very strong on the Sports side of things and we had formidable teams who excelled in Football, Bowls, Golf, Darts, Dominies, Pool etc. and to give you some idea of the strength of our sporting teams, I can recall as Golf Convener taking no less that 16 golfers to “Loudon Gowf Club” to play for the Lodge Annual Golf Trophy.

I cannot mention the Lodge sporting events without referring to our association with Lodge St. James, Newton Upon Ayr No. 125 and our annual visits to play golf and bowls, which were always followed by a meal and a dance. These events created long and lasting friendships between the respective brethren and their wives and partners, many of which happily still survive.

On the more serious side of the Lodge ceremonials, there are a few memories that come to mind, the first being a trip to St. Machar Lodge in Aberdeen. I recall that when we received the invitation we assumed that it would be a small country Lodge and so in order to ensure that our rendering of the 3rd degree was up to our usual standard, I took along my small electronic keyboard to provide the music, as we didn’t think they would have an organ or piano.

However, on arrival we were astounded and indeed awestruck by the size and magnificence of this wonderful Masonic temple, which was comparable with Grand Lodge in Edinburgh.

They had two magnificent Temples, both of which had huge pipe organs and in these formidable surroundings our degree team were absolutely astounding and in fact were the talk of the whole North East.

We followed the ceremonial with a typical Lodge Knightswood “Harmony”, the like of which had never been seen in Aberdeen before. The result of this visit meant a future invitation to confer a degree at a Lodge in Nairn.

We did maintain a strong relationship with St. Machar for many years and indeed they visited us on several occasions, each time presenting the Lodge with a very fine engraved mirror, which can be seen displayed on the wall in the East of the Lodge.

Sadly, like many Lodges and other organisations, the number of members began to fall during the 1990’s and to such an extent that we often struggled to maintain our degree work at a high level.

The lack of new members and the consequent decline in Lodge finances and several problems with the management of the bar, the Lodge reached a critical situation, and it was decided that the only way forward was to sell the premises.

This would have been a drastic step and would probably have meant the end of Lodge Knightswood at some time in the future, probably sooner rather than later.

However, with some help and advice from our Bank Manager, who by good fortune was Brother Bill Gilmour, who ultimately became the Provincial Grand Master of Glasgow, we managed to weather the financial storm.

The real turning point in the Lodge’s survival and continued success, was when Brother Alex McLauchlan took over sole responsibility for the running of the bar and designating the Social Fund Account to be solely used for the Bar finances.

This was a huge commitment by Alex, as the running of the bar involved the allocating of all hall lets, the manning of the bar when required at these events and the subsequent cleaning up after the events, the re-stocking of the bar and the general management of the finances.

We created a system that would bring the bar’s finances under control and so I think my influence and business experience and Alex’s knowledge of alcohol sales and expertise as a barman completely revolutionised Lodge Knightswood.

 Brother Alex must be considered as the saviour of Lodge Knightswood, and it’s been my personal privilege and pleasure to have come through my Masonic career with both Alex and John Wright.

Indeed, when I was Master of the Lodge, Alex was my Senior Warden and John was my Junior Warden and the three of us have been together for these last 30 years and shared all of the ups and downs of the Lodge.

Brother Alex is still the stalwart behind the scenes of Lodge Knightswood and the work and dedication of Brother Alex and the simple system of running the bar that Alex and I put together and operated over the years, have led to the financial success and survival of the Lodge through these very difficult years.

We have been fortunate in the last couple of years to have initiated some wonderful young candidates and their enthusiasm of commitment augur well for the future of our Lodge and for Freemasonry in general.

I hope I’ll be around for a few more years to see the progress that these young men make both in their personal and Masonic lives and to add some more fond Masonic memories to my overflowing memory bank.

Both my wife Helen and I have made some wonderful and everlasting friendships during my 40 years as a member of Lodge Knightswood and the only way I can think of repaying the debt we owe, is to continue to offer my services whenever I can and hopefully maintain the standard and values that I have enjoyed and pass them on to the younger brethren who will carry them into the future.

A Few Pictures of Our More Handsome Brethren



SW Alex McLauchlan, RWM John Williamson, JW John Wright - 1978-79
with their wives - Barbara, Helen and Helen

SW. Alex McLauchlan, RWM John G Williamson. JW John Wright -1978 - 79

RWM Alex McLauchlan, IPM John G Williamson, Sub Master Stephen Wilson

RWM Robert Provan - Inst. Masters John Williamson & Alex McLauchlan

History of the Forget-Me-Not

It is not a widely known fact that during the Nazi reign in Germany, Freemasonry was outlawed and its members hunted down, murdered or at best interned in concentration camps. Masonic lodges were ransacked and destroyed.

The reason that Freemasonry incurred the wrath of the Nazi’s was that our principal of equality, that every man is equal regardless of race or religion, clearly was not in keeping with Nazi ideals. Also the foundations of our institution, which are recorded in the Old Testament of the Bible, were seen as an unhealthy, close association with the Jewish religion.
In fact the Holy Royal Arch Chapter jewel that members wear, could easily be mistaken as a symbol of the Jewish religion, with its centrepiece being so designed.

As a consequence of this oppression, Freemasonry in Germany was forced underground and the display or wearing of any Masonic symbol would clearly have been foolhardy.
So a symbol was sought, by which brethren could recognize each other, and the simple Forget-Me-not was chosen, probably because it was so ordinary, widespread and as such would not attract unwanted attention. Therefore the wearing of a Forget-Me-Not in one’s lapel would signal to other Freemason’s that you were a brother.

At the end of the Second World War, the Grand Lodge of Germany reconvened, and announced that the Forget-Me-Not would remain as a symbol by which German brethren would recognize each other. And also to be worn in the memory of those brave brethren who continued to practice Freemasonry against these odds, and had lost their lives.

In later years the Forget-Me-Not was adopted by Freemasonry in general, in continued memory of those brave German brethren, and as a symbol that despite the great oppression, adversity and evil faced during those dark years, the light of Freemasonry was not extinguished.

So that is the origins of the Forget-Me-Not lapel pin, and how it has come to be a custom in some Lodges, that a newly raised Master Mason is presented with one by his proposer, or good friend as a symbol of eternal friendship and as a reminder that the light of Freemasonry will Continue to shine through all adversity.

More Pictures from the Gallery

PGM Henry Jeffrey, RWM James Connelly with Office Bearers - 1993-94

RWM Alex McLauchlan, Barbara& Friends - 1979-80

Some pictures of Western Districts dances

Left to Right, Arthur Johnston & Wife (HLI 1459), Walter & Sally Sword (1445), Alex & Nan Morrison (117), Thomas I. Thomas & Wife (73), (don't Know), Gerry Lillie & Wife (1346), Willie & Jean Burton (1207), Murdo MacDonald & Wife (683), Tommy & Jean Metters (1523), Tommy Anderson & Wife (88)

Seven Master’s and wives

Lodge Knightswood - Masonic Ball, Cameron House, 30th October 1969

Office Bearers of Lodge Knightswood 1445 & Lodge St James Newton-upon-Ayr 125 2009