Some of the newer Masons have shown an inerest in the history of Stowmarket Masonry. Over the PART forthcoming issues of ORACLE we will be publishing a short history compiled by the Late W.Bro. Mike Catton. A booklet is also available on request from Codge Barber, Phoenix Lodge 516 1

A History of Phœnix Lodge No.516 In the County of Suffolk from 1754-1980

Compiled by the late W.Bro. M. R. Catton Phœnix Lodge 1978-79

IMPORTANT DATES 2 March 1754 No.104 Meeting Under Warrant Issued by Moderns at Mitre Tavern, Union Street, Westminster 8 January 1793 No.104 Rose and Crown Lodge, Rose and Crown Inn, Crown Street, Westminster. September 1797 No.104 Mitre and Dove Inn, King Street, Westminster 11 December 1798 No.104 Becomes Dormant. 24 September 1801 No.104 Mitre and Dove Inn. Cleared all Outstanding Business 22 November 1802 No.104 New Name Phœnix Lodge Transferred to Stowmarket 27 December 1813 No.129 Union of 2 Grand Lodges. Phœnix Given New Number December 1832 No.104 Numbers Closed up December 1838 No.104 Surrender Warrant and Erased 1840-1862 No.104 Warrant used by Lodge in Bridgetown, Barbados 21 August 1845 No. 757 New Number issued for New Phœnix Warrant 1936 No.516 Numbering System Closed Up for Last Time

Before one can begin a study of the History 2nd March 1744 when the Lodge met at of Phœnix Lodge and its several changes in the Mitre Tavern in Union Street, Lodge numbers, one must first refer briefly to Westminster. However the earliest recorded the change taking place during the last decade minutes of the Lodge which was ultimately of the 18th century and early part of the 19th to become Phœnix Lodge, begin with a century to Grand Lodge itself. Up to 1813 meeting of the Rose and Crown Lodge there were two Grand Lodges, namely the No.104 on Tuesday 8th January 1793 at the Ancients and the Modern’s Grand Lodges. Rose and Crown Inn, Crown On the 27th December 1813 these two Street, Westminster bodies were joined under the name of the At that meeting the Minutes of the two United Grand Lodge of England, who then previous meetings were read and confirmed began a new register of numbers by giving and a resolution was carried ‘that in future alternately first one number to the oldest no Negus be suffered to be drunk at the Ancients Lodge, the second to the senior Lodge at the Lodge expense.’ From this we Modern’s Lodge and so on. may inter that the actual Lodge meetings A search of the library in Freemasons Hall were rather more free and easy than in the reveals that the first Warrant was granted on present days. The minutes also record a Phœnix Banner - Embroidered Richard Tydeman forward and take the pardon of the Brethren’ and at the following meeting the resolution was considered to be done away with, the Landlord having ‘come forward in a manner perfectly satisfactory to the Brethren.’ Trouble however again arose with the Landlord in September 1797 after a meeting which seems to have shown a certain liveliness when the Landlord was offered 10/6 for broken glasses and ‘if not accepted, he must look to the members who broke them.’ At the November meeting, the Landlord on being asked whether he wished to accommodate the Lodge at his house, replied that he would rather have it removed, and it was resolved that the Lodge be removed to Brother Gyders and on the same evening the 10/6 was tendered to the Landlord who accepted the same. The Lodge was presumably removed at once to Brother Gyders for the subsequent minutes refer to the Lodge being held at the Mitre and Dove, King Street, Westminster. After the meeting in June 1798 there was no meeting until November 1798 when there were only 5 members present and it was proposed that ‘on account of the confusion occasioned by the death of the Tyler, a special summons be prepared and delivered as soon as possible for convocation of the members on the next regular meeting day.’ This meeting was held on 11th December 1798 when only three Brethren attended and the mins state that ‘the Members not having met agreeable to a particular summons, Brother Parkhurst and Brother Watts cleared the books and stopped their names.’ So apparently all the other Brethren were excluded by the action of the three Brethren present and the next meeting was held nearly three years later on the 24th September 1801 by four of the older Brethren and 5 Visitors from Lodges No. 92 and 225 when the meeting was evidently held again at the Mitre and Dove. Trouble letter from the Grand Lodge respecting open after the time for closing the same again arose with the Landlord, the entry in payment of 5/- by every Initiate, the money fixed by the new By-laws. the minute being, ‘The Lodge having to be applied toward the support of the In November 1793 it was recorded that a discontinued to meet for a considerable Royal Cumberland Masonic School. Brother objecting to paying the whole of his time on account of the loss of the Jewels Also Mr. Cotter was initiated into the 1st quarterages and being refractory his name through the dishonesty of the Tyler and and passed through the 2nd degree and he was unanimously erased from the books of other circumstances, Brother Gyder made a paid the fee of £2.2.0. the Lodge. demand of 1/6 per week for the whole Annexed to the Minutes is a list of members In all these early minutes we find that the term which the Lodge had lain dormant which shows that the membership was then Master of the Lodge was elected for six and expressing his disapprobation to 24 to which is added a list of 5 visitors all of months only, so there are frequent elections entertain the members any longer at his St. Lukes Lodge, Chelsea who were present and on every occasion the Master chose his house.’ Brother Parkhurst moved that the on the occasion and contributed the sum of own officers without regard to seniority Lodge be regularly summoned according to 7/6 to the funds. and even such important officers as the the Constitution to make Brother Gyder Wardens and Secretary held their offices for reasonable amends for his care of the Nine meetings were held during the year but a short time. furniture and to determine on a proper and at the meeting in June 1793 an place for their future accommodation. alteration of the By-laws was confirmed At the Meeting in May 1797 it was resolved and immediately thereafter the Master of that the Lodge be moved from this house the Lodge was fined for keeping the Lodge on condition ‘the Landlord do come TO BE CONTINUED... Some of the newer Masons have shown an interest in the history of Stowmarket Masonry. Over the PART forthcoming issues of ORACLE we will be publishing a short history compiled by the Late W.Bro. Mike Catton. A booklet is also available on request from Codge Barber, Phoenix Lodge 516 2

A History of Phœnix Lodge No.516

...CONTINUED meeting was ordered for the following entered into at the last Lodge Meeting and month for the purpose of passing and raising his return which was a follows: No more meetings were held for another some of the Brethren, to which meeting, year, but presumably the claim of the Brother Howe ...... promised payment visitors should be invited in order to assist in Landlord was satisfied for the only remaining Brother Halls ...... gave no answer the ceremony. This meeting was subsequently meeting of the lodge at Westminster was held Brother Fenton ...... not at home held on 4th January 1803 when Brothers at the same house, the Mitre and Dove on Brother Callow ...... Butcher, Roffe and Talboys all of Lodge 22nd November 1802 when 6 Brethren ...... came forward this evening Perfect Friendship No.389 were present and were present, none of whose names so far as Brother Smith ...... did same presumably assisted in the Ceremony. I can see appear on any previous Minutes as Brother Easthaugh Members of the Lodge or at any subsequent No less than fourteen meetings were held ...... promised to come forward meetings as members of the Lodge and I can during 1803 but there were usually only 7 Brother Pattle ...... paid his quarterages only conclude that they were divers or 8 members present. ‘In consequence of the above report it is freemasons who satisfied the Landlord’s In September 1805 it was resolved by a this night resolved upon absolutely that the claim and took over the Warrant and the majority of one that the Lodge be removed consideration of the above statement be furniture for the purpose appearing in the to the White Hart Inn, Stowmarket kept by deferred until next St. Johns at which time Minutes which show: Brother Boldero who was a member of the the Bye-laws will be actually enforced and 1 The Minutes of the Previous Meeting Lodge. This resolution was confirmed in all brethren are required to take notice were read and confirmed. October and the November meeting was thereof accordingly.’ held at the White Hart. 2 Brother Jay of Badley in the County of Suffolk, Merchant, was elected a member of the Lodge. ... 3 Black Beans instead of one should lead 3 Brother Jay was elected Master of the Lodge. to the rejection of candidate At a meeting on December 1806 it was 4 Brother Jay proposed and it was resolved All now proceeded smoothly until April resolved by 3 Black Beans instead of one that Lodge be removed to The Kings 1806 when on the appointment of a new should lead to the rejection of candidate Head, Stowmarket, Suffolk. Secretary it was resolved ‘That the Tyler be and as the usual attendance at these sent to all Brethren who are in arrears of their 5 Brother Jay proposed and it was resolved meetings was still only 7 or 8, it would quaterages with the full power to demand the that this Lodge be henceforth called the appear that election to the Lodge become same and that his receipt shall be a full Phœnix Lodge. an easy matter. discharge. That if any Brother shall refuse to At the meeting at the White Hart on 15th ... Brother Jay named the Lodge thus, as he did in fact September 1807 the members judged it improper to proceed to any business on raise his Lodge from the ashes of the previous one. account of some Military Officers being in the adjoining room and in October 1808 the Therefore it does seem reasonable to assume pay the Tyler when demanded he shall be regular meeting was held on Sunday 9th that Brother Jay named the Lodge thus, as he reported to the Grand Lodge of England and October and in consequence of Brothers did in fact raise his Lodge from the ashes of be absolutely expelled from the Lodge. Also Boldero leaving this inn and the house being the previous one. And so next month on 27th that as well as expelling the Brother refusing shut up as a Public House, and it was December 1802 we find a meeting of the to pay, ‘he shall also be proceeded against in a resolved that the Lodge be removed to the Phœnix Lodge held at the Kings Head, legal manner to recover the same and that by House of Brother Ungless at the White Stowmarket with Brother Jay as Worshipful virtue of the Bye-laws already established. It Horse in Stowmarket. This was accordingly Master and 6 other Brethren. Brother Jay was agreed that a copy of the said done and Brother Ungless was appointed appointed these 6 Brethren to the various Resolutions be given to the Tyler by the Secretary. offices of the Lodge (though when they were Secretary and shown to all the Brethren At a meeting held at the White Horse on made masons does not appear). The Minutes against who he had any demand.’ 7th February 1809 separate charges were of the Meeting held at the Mitre and Dove At the next meeting on the 20th April 1806 exhibited against Brother Thompson and were read and confirmed and a special the Tyler produced a copy of the Resolution Brother Kent for acting inconsistent to the rules of Masonry. The R.W.M. has ordered Brother Ranson’s at the Queens Head and flourishing in the town of Stowmarket. So summonses to be sent to every Brothers subsequent meetings were held their, and at we come to the last entry in the old Minute requiring his attendance at halfpast a meeting held there in December 1816 Book of a meeting on 24th June 1829 with 5 o’clock on the 7th March next, to take were read the letters from the Grand Lodge only 5 members present when it was into consideration the said separate charges in London and also the Laws and resolved ‘that all members whose arrears of and determine the same with candor and Regulations for the government of the Craft quarterages are not paid up by the next justice. At the next meeting in May 1809 it established by the Provincial Grand Lodge Lodge night be immediately erased from was resolved that ‘notice be sent to Brother at Ipswich in August 1815, which were the Lodge Register.’ Thompson and Kent to summon them to unanimously approved by the Brethren In 1832, owing to the closing up of the attend next Lodge Night in order to make present and it was agreed that the Master numbers by Grand Lodge, the Lodge their defence against the charges exhibited and Wardens of this Lodge should attend the reverted to the old number of 104, and 6 against them last Lodge night,’ and on 3rd next meeting of the British Union Lodge years later in 1838 Phœnix Lodge No.104 May 1809 ‘the conduct of Brother for the purpose of instruction. and whose was erased and the Warrant surrendered. Thompson of Beccles, late a member of this laws they agreed to abide by. Lodge was investigated and it was agreed The adventures of this Warrant however At the next meeting the Lodge was moved that a letter should be sent to Brother had not quite come to an end for the back to the White Horse and in June 1818 Thompson to acquaint him that this Lodge Warrant with the No.104 was issued by it was once more moved to the White Hart. is of the opinion that his conduct lately is Grand Lodge to a Lodge into Bridgetown, very reprehensible indeed, he having acted From this date on for several years, a Barbados and used by them from 1840- extremely inconsistent to the character of a noticeable feature is that the Lodge had a 1862 when it was finally erased. Mason and that, unless he makes a proper constant influx of new members, most of Stowmarket however could not remain for apology to this Lodge, his conduct will be whom only remained members for about long without a Lodge of Freemasons and in exposed to the Lodge of Masons at Beccles one year, so that there were frequent less than 7 years after the previous Lodge of which he means to become a member. changes in membership without any was erased a meeting was held to confirm a No indication is given as to the nature of appreciable alteration in the numbers, and it new Lodge. his offence but certain inferences may be is obvious that Masonry was not at all drawn from the following information. Brother Thompson was the Tyler up to 8th November 1808. At the previous meeting Petition of Lodge 757, Fox Inn, Stowmarket on 11th October 1808 the minutes state that ‘The Lodge was opened in the 1st 15th July 1845 Degree. Mr. Simpson on coming to the To the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the United Fraternity of Ancient Free and Accepted door was so alarmed that he declined being Masons of England. made. Afterwards the Lodge was closed We, the undersigned, being regular registered Mason of the Lodge mentioned against our respective with Harmony and Good Fellowship.’ Two names, having the prosperity of the Craft at heart, are anxious to exert our best endeavours to promote meetings later Brother Thompson is and diffuse the genuine principles of the art, and for the conveniency of our respective dwellings and accused of character unbecoming to a other good reasons, we are desirous of forming a new Lodge to be names the Phœnix Lodge. Mason as we have already heard. The In consequence of this desire we pray for a Warrant of Constitution impowering us to meet as a regular Minutes do not give any indication Lodge at the Fox Inn, Stowmarket on the Wednesday on or before the fullmoon of every month and whether there was any connection between there to discharge the duties of Masonry in a constitutional manner according to the forms of the order the two incidents but one cannot help and the Laws of the Grand Lodge. wondering whether it was the conduct of And we have nominated and do recommend Brother Frederick William Freeman to be the 1st Master, Brother the Tyler outside the door of the Lodge William Leedes Fox to be the 1st Senior Warden and Brother Thomas Batman Beck to be the 1st Junior which so frightened Mr. Simpson. Warden. The Lodge subsequently ‘forbear to report The prayer of this petition being granted, we promise strict obedience to the commands of the Grand him at present in consideration of his wife Master and the Laws and Regulations of Grand Lodge. and family, he being newly set up in trade in Frederick William Freeman, Chaplain British Union Lodge No.131, Ipswich the said town it might considered hurt him therein.’ The conduct of Brother Kent was William Leedes Fox, Solicitor Perfect Friendship Lodge No.552, Ipswich next brought forward and it was put to the Thomas Batman Beck Surgeon Perfect Friendship Lodge No.552, Ipswich ballot whether he be expelled or severely Robert Thorns P.M. Late Phœnix Lodge No.129, Stowmarket reprimanded and suffered to remain a Thomas Orams Mastersmith Late Phœnix Lodge No.129, Stowmarket member - the majority was for the latter, the Lodge always preferring lenient measures. Robert Peck Late Angel Lodge No.59 Colchester and 272 Ipswich. At the meeting of 17th February 1815 the William Andrews Late Phœnix Lodge, Stowmarket minutes state that Brother Sparrow DPGM attended to give the Brethren instructions The cost of the Warrant was £5.5.0. agreeable to the new form adopted by the The Minute Book of the present Phœnix Lodge commences with the Minutes of a Grand Lodge in consequence of Union and Meeting held at the Fox Inn, Stowmarket on 21st August, 1845 when 10 Freemasons some in the same minutes appears the alterations of of whom were members of the old Lodge, met and held a Lodge meeting. The Lodge the number of the Lodge from 104 to 129. having opened in the 1st Degree it was stated by the W.M. that the petition of Bros. F.W. Freeman, W.L. Fox, T.B. Beck, R. Thorns, R. Peck T. Orams and W. Andrews praying the In March 1815 owing to Brother Ungless M.W.G.M. to form them into a Lodge to be called the Phœnix Lodge in Stowmarket had being about to leave the White Horse, it was resolved that the Lodge be removed to Some of the newer Masons have shown an interest in the history of Stowmarket Masonry. Over the PART forthcoming issues of ORACLE we will be publishing a short history compiled by the Late W.Bro. Mike Catton. A booklet is also available on request from Codge Barber, Phoenix Lodge 516 3

A History of Phœnix Lodge No.516

...CONTINUED The Minute Book of the present Phœnix Lodge commences with the Minutes of a Meeting held at the Fox Inn, Stowmarket on 21st August, 1845 when 10 Freemasons some Petition of of whom were members of the old Lodge, met and held a Lodge meeting. the Lodge Lodge 757, Fox having opened in the 1st Degree it was stated by the W.M. that the petition of Bros. F.W. Freeman, W.L. Fox, T.B. Beck, R. Thorns, R. Inn, Stowmarket Peck T. Orams and W. Andrews praying the 15th July 1845 M.W.G.M. to form them into a Lodge to be called the Phœnix Lodge in Stowmarket had been duly presented and that the prayer of the Petition had been granted. To the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the United Fraternity of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of England. Warrant We, the undersigned, being regular registered To all and every our Right Worshipful, Mason of the Lodge mentioned against our Worshipful and Loving Brethren. respective names, having the prosperity of the WE. Thomas Dundas, Earl of Zetland, Baron Craft at heart, are anxious to exert our best endeavours to promote and diffuse the genuine principles of the art, Dundas of Aske in the County of York etc. etc. and for the conveniency of our respective dwellings and other good reasons, we are desirous of forming a new Lodge to be names the Phœnix Lodge. Grand Master In consequence of this desire we pray for a Warrant of Constitution impowering us to meet as a regular Lodge at of the Most Ancient and Honourable of free the Fox Inn, Stowmarket on the Wednesday on or before the fullmoon of every month and there to discharge the and accepted Masons of England SEND duties of Masonry in a constitutional manner according to the forms of the order and the Laws of the Grand Lodge. GREETINGS. And we have nominated and do recommend Brother Frederick William Freeman to be the 1st Master, Brother KNOW YE William Leedes Fox to be the 1st Senior Warden and Brother Thomas Batman Beck to be the 1st Junior Warden. That we by the authority and under the The prayer of this petition being granted, we promise strict obedience to the commands of the Grand Master sanction of the United Grand Lodge of and the Laws and Regulations of Grand Lodge. England vested in US for the purpose and at Frederick William Freeman, chaplain the humble Petition of our Right Trusty and British Union Lodge No.131, Ipswich well beloved Brethren, Frederick william Freeman, William Leedes Fox, Thomas William Leedes Fox, Solicitor Perfect Batman Beck, Robert Thorn, thomas Oram, Friendship Lodge No.552, Ipswich Robert Peck and William Andrews DO Thomas Batman Beck Surgeon hereby constitute the Brethren into a Lodge Perfect Friendship Lodge No.552, Ipswich of free and accepted Masons under the title or denomination of No.516. Robert Thorns P.M. Late Phœnix Lodge No.129, Stowmarket The Phœnix Lodge Thomas Orams Mastersmith Late Phœnix Lodge No.129, Stowmarket the said Lodge to meet at the Fox Inn, Stowmarket in the county of Suffolk on the Robert Peck Late Angel Lodge No.59 Wednesday on or before the full moon of every Colchester and 272 Ipswich. month empowering them in the said Lodge when William Andrews Late Phœnix Lodge, duly congregated to make, pass, and raise Free Stowmarket Masons according to the ancient custom of the Craft in all ages and Nations throughout the The cost of the Warrant was £5.5.0. known World. And further at their said Petition and of the great trust and confidence reposed in every of the above named Brethren. We do appoint the said Frederick William Freeman to be the first Master, the said William Leedes Fox to be the first Senior Warden, and the said Thomas Batman Beck to be the first Junior Warden for opening and holding the said Lodge and until such time as another master shall be regularly elected and installed, strictly charging that every Member who shall be elected to preside over the said Lodge and who must previously have duly served as Warden in a warranted Lodge shall be installed in ancient form and according to the Laws of the Grand Lodge that he may thereby be fully invested with the dignities and powers of his office. And we do require you, the said Frederick William Freeman to take special care that all and every the said Brethren are or have been regularly made Masons and that you and they and all other Members of the said Lodge do observe, perform and keep the Laws, Rules and orders contained in the Book of Constitution and all other which may from time to time be made by our Grand Lodge or transmitted by us on our Successors Grand Masters or by our Deputy Grand Master for the time being. And we do enjoin you to make such Byelaws for the Government of you Lodge as Extract from Freemasons Quarterly shall to the Majority of the Members appear proper and necessary, the same not being contrary to or Review 1845 inconsistent with the General Laws and regulations of the Craft, a copy where you are to Under Provincial, Stowmarket No.1 transmit to us. And we do require you to cause all such Byelaws and Regulations and also an account The Lodges in this County were augmented by the revival of the Phœnix Lodge of the proceedings in you Lodge to be entered in a formerly No.129 now 757 - a new Warrant having been granted by the Most Worshipful book to be kept for that purpose. And you are in the Grand Master, Bro. J. M. Clark W.M. of the Perfect Friendly Lodge 552, Ipswich nowise to omit to send to us or our Successors constituted, and Bro. G. Bullen P.D.P.G.M. British Union Lodge 131 consecrated the Grand Masters or to the Right Honourable new Lodge. The brethren from Colchester, Ipswich, Woodbridge, Bury St. Edmunds, Richard William Penncurzone Howe, Earl Hadleigh, Eye and other places, mustered about 100, formed in procession at the Fox Howe, Viscount and Baron Curzon of Penn and Inn and proceeded to the Assembly Rooms where the Lodge was held and opened in Baron Howe G.C.H., Lord Chamberlain to Her due form. A collection was made afterwards for the benefit of the National Schools in Majesty, Queen Adelaide etc. etc. etc. our Deputy that place and the procession being reformed, proceeded to the church, where a most Grand Master or to the Deputy Grand Master eloquent sermon was delivered by For. Rev. F.W. Freeman, M.A. W.M. Elect of the new for the time being, at least once in every year, a list Lodge and Chaplain to the Brition Union Lodge 131, from the 6th Chapter of Galatians of the Members of your Lodge and the names and 9th and 10th Verses. The Past Provincial Grand Organist Bro. Foster presided at the organ descriptions of all Masons initiated therein and with his usual kindness and capability. After divine service, the Brethren returned to the Brethren who shall have joined the same with the Lodge Room, where refreshments were served and the Ladies admitted. About 60 of the fees and monies payable thereon. It being our will Brethren retired to the banquet which was served up in a commodious apartment and intention that while our Warrant of constructed in the Corn Exchange. It was provided by Mr. J. Lockwood, Landlord of the Constitution shall continue in force so long only as Fox Inn and the dinner and wine certainly were a credit to him (he was one of the you shall conform to the Laws and regulations of unfortunates whose initiation was compelled to be deferred). The room was well lighted our Grand Lodge. And you the said Frederick with gas, laid on for the express purpose and tastefully decorated with the banners of William Freeman are further required as soon as the different Lodge, flags, flowers, evergreens etc. The chair was taken by the W.M. of the conveniently maybe, to send us an account in Phœnix Lodge No.757 supported on his right by Bro. G. Bullen P.D.P.G.M., Bro. the writing of what shall be done by virtue of these Rev. F. Whitley, W.M. Prince Edwins Lodge 751 and on his left by Bro. J.M. Clark, W.M. presents. Perfect Friendship Lodge 522. After the removal of the cloth, the Chairman rose and gave the health of our most gracious Majesty ‘The Queen’ and other loyal toasts and GIVEN under our Hands and the Seal of afterwards, the Earl of Zetland, our M.W.G.M. and the other usual Masonic toasts. Many the Grand Lodge at other toasts were drank and suitable replies given by a great many of the Brethren who London this 17th July A. L. 5845. A.D. 1845 did not part until a late hour, all well pleased at the termination of the days or work. BY COMMAND of the M.W. Grand We ought not to forget to add that the whole of the furniture of the new Lodge, jewels Master etc. were supplied by Bro. E. Dorling of Ipswich in first rate style. WILLIAM H. WHITEA G.S. HOWE. D.G.M TO BE CONTINUED... Some of the newer Masons have shown an interest in the history of Stowmarket Masonry. Over the PART forthcoming issues of ORACLE we will be publishing a short history compiled by the Late W.Bro. Mike Catton. A booklet is also available on request from Codge Barber, Phoenix Lodge 516 4

A History of Phœnix Lodge No.516

...CONTINUED 24th September 1845 and among those preached by Rev. F.W. Freeman M.A. who present were brethren from Perfect Friendship was a member of the Lodge and who The revival of the Lodge by the local Lodge, some from Virtue and Silence, St. afterwards became the D.P.G.M. of Suffolk. Freemasons was entirely due to the assistance Lukes, British Union, Doric Lodge and rendered them by the Perfect Friendship Lodge, The Consecration took place in the usual form. others. Bro. G. Bullen D.P.G.M. of Suffolk Ipswich and the Freemasons in Stowmarket W.Bro. F.W. Freeman, the W.M. appointed his being the Consecrating Officer. The today should be even mindful of the kind officers and on the investing of Bro. M. Leedes Consecration took place at the Assembly assistance given by Perfect Friendship in 1845. Fox his S.W., Bro. Fox then presented the W.M. Room adjoining the Corn Exchange, after with the gavel which is still in use today. From The next meeting of Phœnix Lodge No.757 which the Brethren proceeded in procession that day to the present time, meetings were held took place at the Fox Hotel, Stowmarket on to the Parish Church where a sermon was regularly and were well attended. The search through the subsequent minutes did not reveal many items of historical interest but the following may be referred to. At the meeting in October 1851 the Lodge congratulated Bro. K.D. Aldrich on his safe return from the Arctic Regions, Bro. Aldrich being then present as a member of the Lodge.

Although there is no reference to the event in the minutes of Phœnix Lodge it has been a matter of tradition that at some time the Master Chair belonging to Phœnix Lodge passed into the possession of some other person and thence into the possession of Perfect Friendship. It would appear from the minutes of the Perfect Friendship dated 20th October 1858 that at the request of the D.P.G.M. of Suffolk ‘Perfect Friendship restore the Phœnix Lodge their chair and receive from the D.P.G.M. the chair which had been used for meetings at the Provincial Grand Lodge.’ Thus once again, Perfect Friendship came to the assistance of Phœnix Lodge. In March 1859 Phœnix Lodge sent a petition to Grand Lodge for relief from the Fund of Benevolence for a Brother who had been a member of the old Phœnix Lodge and this appears to have been accepted. In June 1862 we have the first recorded visit of the Provincial Grand Master of Suffolk. Col. R.A. Shaftoe Adair, afterwards Lord Waveney, who delivered an address to the Brethren. In October 1862 the minutes record the death of William Andrews who was for many years a member of the old Phœnix Lodge, and who held the office of Inner Guard in the present Phœnix Lodge continuously from 1845-1862, being apparently a permanent Inner Guard. On 14th January 1876 there is a reference to a Bro. George Tydeman, Jeweller, which began a long association between the name of Tydeman and Phœnix Lodge, which was carried on by W.Bro. Percy Tydeman P.A.G.D.C. who in 1965 received the thanks of the Lodge on the completion of 17 years as D.C. He died in September 1969 but the tradition is ably allowing the Lodge to meet in Temple Road, secured privately by several brothers for £4,250, carried on by our Grand Officer. V.W.Bro, the Oddfellows Hall, Congregational Church and was available to the Lodges at that price. Schoolroom, County Secondary School etc. Reverend Canon Richard Tydeman M.A. The Dispensation from Prov. G.L. permitting and in fact in 1919, three meetings were held Grand Chaplain, who on 21st April 1971 gave the Lodge to meet at the Masonic Hall, Violet on Saturday afternoons. the Prestonian Lecture held under special Hill Road is dated 4th January 1965 and the dispensation at the Copdock Hotel, Ipswich, There is a very touching story attached to the 1st meeting was held there on 8th January under the banner of Phœnix Lodge. The meeting held at Temple Road on 9th 1965. The membership in 1965 was 113 in lecture was entitled ‘Masters and Master December 1939. Bro. F. W. Whiting the S.W. Phœnix and 65 in Ala Lodge. Masons’ - a theory of the third degree. was critically and terminally ill but such was To be continued... The next milestone in the history of the his determination and desire to be the W.M. of Lodge occurred on 13th April 1938 when Phœnix Lodge that the members applied for ‘Bro. W.G. Pritchard proposed and Bro. A.E. a dispensation to hold an Installation Meeting Palmer seconded, that the Master and Wardens at his home in order to install him into the be authorised to sign the Certificate on the Chair of K.S. He was so ill that he was only Petition for the foundation of a New Masonic able to invest his S.W. and J.W. - all the other Lodge to be held in Stowmarket, the Petition investitutes being postponed until a future being now produced and read by the evening. At the very next meeting held on Secretary and signed by some of the Founders 12th January 1940 the acting W.M. had to viz, W.M. W.Bro. Mark Harrison, S.W. Bro. F. report the sad loss the Lodge had sustained by Heal, J.W. Bro. F. Cartwright, Sec. W.Bro. J. the death of its W.M. Manning Prentice, W.Bro. F. M. Wilson, J.J. On the 9th March 1945, the W.M. again referred Wilson, S.C. Hounsfield, Bro. A.E. Palmer, N. to the advisability of seeking a ‘home of our own’ Haywood Smith etc. The new Lodge was but nothing more was done about this until a named Ala Lodge No.5043 . Permanent Committee Meeting held on 22nd Phœnix Lodge during the early part of the October 1963 when W.Bro. Aldis, W.Bro. L. 20th century met regularly in St. Peters Whitely and Bro. R.A. Bailey were asked to Church Hall in Church Walk, but there is an consider and report on the cost of alternative entry in the minutes as early as 11th October accommodation. At this period, the Annual 1935 recording a proposition that more Subscription was £2. and 16/6d for a country suitable premises should be found. During the members. On the 7th September 1964 the war years, many dispensations were sought Committee reported that ‘Beech House had been Some of the newer Masons have shown an interest in the history of Stowmarket Masonry. Over the PART forthcoming issues of ORACLE we will be publishing a short history compiled by the Late W.Bro. Mike Catton. A booklet is also available on request from Codge Barber, Phoenix Lodge 516 5

A History of Phœnix Lodge No.516

The history of Phœnix Lodge would not be complete without mentioning our Lady Caterer, Mrs. Audrey Mascall, the wife of W.Bro. F. J. Mascall. In 1972 on the death of W.Bro. J.W. Dykes, Mrs. Mascall undertook to cater for Phœnix Lodge and Chapter until a successor could be found. Now in 1981 she is still with us and the popularity and renown of Phœnix Festive Board is due in a great degree to her superb cooking. With the money she has raised from this and other charitable works, she has already bought and maintains one ambulance and is well on the way to buying another one for the Stowmarket Red Cross Disabled Club. Phœnix are proud to b associated with such a wonderful venture and such a hard working Carving on the Organist Seat and charitable lady.

...CONTINUED The Proposition was seconded by W.Bro. P.J. Tydeman and carried unanimously. The We must now go back to 23rd September Chapter was duly formed and consecrated on 1945 when the Centenary of Phœnix Lodge 22nd September 1947, and is still flourishing was held and a Service was held at Baylham with 59 members. Church after which the Congregation was entertained to tea in the Village Hall by kind A regular feature of Lodge work during this invitation of the W.M. Bro. W.H. Richards, period was that once a year both Lodges Church Warden. combined to present one of the Masonic Lectures, a custom which since 1974 when An extract from the minutes of 10th January the last lecture was given, unfortunately seems 1947 records the next important event and is to have lapsed. well worth recording here. W.Bro. J.J. Wilson P.A.G.SV.B. reported, that ‘The United Grand Lodge of England recognises 3 degrees in , the E.A. the F.C. and M.M. - the R.A. being the completion of the 3rd or M.M. degree and that is why G.L. permits the wearing of R.A. Jewels in our Craft Lodges, but not the jewel of any other degree. We, in Stowmarket, have not the facilities for completing the work we begin and some R.A. Masons consider that such facilities should be provided. Every R.A. Chapter must be sponsored by a craft Lodge and it is quite Masonic that the Founders should approach this, the Senior Lodge in the town to be its Sponsor.. First, Second and Third Degree Working Tools Phœnix Lodge is a Singing Lodge which is another reason why our Festive Board is so I can think of no better way of to conclude a popular and interesting to our history of Phoenix Lodge No.516 than by quoting an extract from the Sermon preached Visitors. Only a few old lodges at the Consecration and Constitution of the are allowed to maintain the Phœnix Lodge No.757 in 1845 by the custom of singing at the Festive Rev. F. W. Freeman M.A. - Curate of Board and it is a custom which Haughley, for it is the finest explanation of we cherish as part of our Phœnix Freemasonry that I have ever heard. tradition although is frowned upon by Grand and Provincial TEXT Grand Lodges. Let us not be weary in well doing for On 24th November 1976 a special in due season we shall reap if we faint Dispensation from United Grand Lodge of not. As we have therefore England enabled W.Bro. B.G. Quinton to hold the office of W.M. of both Phœnix and Ala opportunity, let us do good unto all Lodges at the same time. A unique men, especially unto them that are of Large painting found in Masonic Hall Cellar, achievement which will surely not be the Household of the Faith. Galatian possibly F. W. Freeman equalled for many years. Chapter 6 vs 9-10 Union and harmony constitute the very essence of our order. We always Centenary Warrant meet upon the level and depart upon the square. No strife or animosity is TO THE WORSHIPFUL MATER, WARDENS, OTHER OFFICERS AND ever permitted to approach the portals MEMBERS OF PHŒNIX LODGE, NO.516 AND ALL OTHERS WHOM IT of a , for there within MAY CONCERN the Lodge, all must be Harmony and Peace. By Union we mean that we GREETING are bound together for the gratification of any sensual pleasure, nor mere WHEREAS it appears by the records of the Grand Lodge that on the 17th day of July wordly indulgence, nor any selfish 1845 Warrant of Constitution was granted to certain Brethren therein named authorising and empowering them and their regular successors to hold a Lodge of Free and Accepted motive nor for the encouragement of Masons at the Assembly Rooms, Market Place, Stowmarket in the County of Suffolk the corrupt principles of the heart, but and which Lodge was named the Phœnix Lodge and then numbered 757 on the for the purpose of inculcating upon all Register of the Grand Lodge of England. And whereas in consequence of the alteration who are initiated into the sublime made in the number of Lodges in the year 1863 the said Lodge became and now stands precepts of masonry, those pure on the Register as No.516 meeting at the Fox Hotel, Stowmarket in the county of Suffolk under the title or denomination of principles of morality which must ever flow from a system based as is our THE PHŒNIX LODGE ancient and hourable order upon the And whereas satisfactory proof has been provided of the uninterrupted existence of the Volume of the Sacred Law. said Lodge for ONE HUNDRED YEARS dating from the 24th Day of September 1845. And whereas the Brethren composing the said Lodge desire to be permitted to By Harmony we would wish wear a Commemorative Jewel and have prayed our sanction for that purpose. everyone to understand that we mean NOW KNOW YE that We having taken the Petition into our consideration have that our order is regulated by one acceded to their request and in virtue of Our Prerogative DO HEREBY GIVE AND unchanging system throughout every GRANT to all and each of th Subscribing Members of the said Lodge being Master quarter of the glove being of one accord Mason permission to wear in all our Masonic Meetings, suspended to the left breast by and actuated by one principle, we a Sky Blue Ribbon not exceeding one inch and half in breadth, a JEWEL OR MEDAL of the pattern or device that we have already approved as a CENTENARY JEWEL. But endeavour to carry out to the fullest such jewel shall be worn only by those Brethren who are bona fide Subscribing possible extent that comprehensive and Members of the said Lodge and for so long only as they pay the stipulated subscription imperative command of our Saviour to the funds thereof and be duly returned as such to the Grand Lodge of England. Christ, ‘Love thy neighbour as GIVEN AT LONDON this 24th day of SEPTEMBER AL5945. AD1945 thyself.’ BY COMMAND OF THE MOST WORSHIPFUL MASTER. THE RIGHT HONOURABLE THE EARL OF HAREWOOD K.G.ETC. ETC. ETC. To be continued... Some of the newer Masons have shown an interest in the history of Stowmarket Masonry. Over the PART forthcoming issues of ORACLE we will be publishing a short history compiled by the Late W.Bro. Mike Catton. A booklet is also available on request from Codge Barber, Phoenix Lodge 516 6

A History of Phœnix Lodge No.516

...CONTINUED Brother Andrews widow was given 5/- per in Westminster where our Lodge had its roots. month. Unfortunately this is not possible. Union Street and Crown Street, Westminster lie Interesting Facts The Champagne for Bro. Skendons initiation underneath the area which is occupied by the cost 18/- In 1865, 12 Book of Constitution cost Foreign Office and Government Officers, £1.1.3. I should also like to be able to report that you Whitehall. could still go and have a pint in the three pubs As you can see from the attached copy of an 18th Century Map of the area, Union Street and King Street are very close to Westminster Abbey, so our foundation was very close to the centre of our Capital City. The Candle Holders which we use in the Temple were presented by W.Bro. F.W. Freeman the first W.M. 1845. The gavels with the black hammers and the ivory handles which we still occasionally use were donated by Bro. W. Leedes Fox the first S.W. in March 1972 a new set of wooden gavels was made and kindly presented to the Lodge by W.Bro. M.Howell of Ala Lodge. The tripod on the S.W. Pedestal was presented by Bro. G.J.E. Browned in 1845.

On 14th March 1919 W.Bro. F.A. Badham presented a box containing a complete set of Working Tools as an expression of his October 1965 by the present large Bible gratitude to the G.A.O.T.U. in presented by W.Bro. George Garrod. commemoration of the cessation of hostilities on 11th November 1918. On 12th January 1923, W.Bro. Bramhall presented a second Broken Column, while On 16th May 1919 Bro. Harry C. Simpson Bro. Commander J. Wykeham Hopkyns in a similar way presented the Lodge with the donated a Sacred Symbol. solid silver for the Volume of the Sacred Writings, and also the Hymn and Music Books. W.Bro. W.L. Youngman presented the Lodge with the two Deacons wands and stands. Bro. R.C. Knight presented the Lodge with a Heavy Maul. A most unusual occurrence in Masonry, and as far as I can ascertain, a unique event in Phœnix Lodge occurred on 9th February 1923 when a Dispensation was obtained authorising the initiation of Mr. Com Christopher Hayward, although a minor. He was a University Student aged 18 years. The Lodge presented a Bible to Stowupland Church on 13th December 1935 in memory of W.Bro. Bramhall who for 21 years had read the lessons in that Church. To be continued THIS NEARLY CONCLUDES PHOENIX LODGE HISTORY, WE ARE NOW LOOKING FOR OTHER INTERESTING

INTERESTING READS - Supplied by W.Bro Roger Young. PLEASE CLICK ON LINKS BELOW https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&es rc=s&source=web&cd=10&ved=0ahUKEwjuns_qt bvLAhXBew4KHYuJBZIQFghQMAk&url=http%3A %2F%2Fwww.forgottenbooks.com%2Fdownload _pdf%2FThe_History_of_Stowmarket_the_Ancie nt_County_Town_of_Suffolk_1000383741.pdf&u sg=AFQjCNE82BLc4WYGzxS7DSrIjXrLLBxPKw& bvm=bv.116636494,d.ZWU http://discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/rd /c3b5854d-5ec9-46fc-9936-16c642071a56 http://www.forgottenbooks.com/readbook_text/St ray_Leaves_a_Freemasons_Note- In May 1922 W.Bro. the Rev. H. Coppinger Book_1000011353/339 Hill donated a new copy of the V. of the S.L. https://archive.org/stream/historystowmark00hol which we still own but was replaced in lgoog/historystowmark00hollgoog_djvu.txt Some of the newer Masons have shown an interest in the history of Stowmarket Masonry. Over the PART past issues of ORACLE we have published a short history compiled by the Late W.Bro. Mike Catton. A booklet is also available on request from Codge Barber, Phoenix Lodge 516 7

A History of Phœnix Lodge No.516

...CONTINUED CANDLE HOLDERS V. OF S. L. Presented by W.Bro. F. W. Freeman, the Donated in May 1922 by W.Bro. Rev. H. Masonic Lodge first W.M. in 1845. Coppinger Hill. THE TRIPOD BROKEN COLUMN Furniture on the S.W. Pedestal. Presented by Bro. G. Presented by W.Bro. A. G. Bramhall in J. E. Browne in 1854. January 1923. Compiled by Richard Rednall (c2000) THE GAVELS SACRED SYMBOL with the black hammer and ivory handles. Donated by Bro. Commander J. Wykeham Donated by Bro. W. Leedes Fox, first S.W. Hopkins in January 1923. FRAMED OIL PAINTING in 1845. Fraternal Remembrance of Bro. Frederick LONG CASE CLOCK William Freeman Clerk, M.A. First W.M. BOX CONTAINING COMPLETE Masonic symbols on dial. Presented by of Phoenix Lodge No.757 and D.P.G.M. SET OF WORKING TOOLS W.Bro. W. H. Richards 1944. of the Province of Suffolk. Who was Presented by W.Bro. F. A. Badham in V. OF S. L. summoned to the Grand Lodge above on 22nd commemoration of the cessation of Donated by W.Bro. George Garrod in March 5863 A.L. hostilities on 11th November, 1918. October 1965. WARRANT OF CONSTITUTION SOLID SILVER SQUARE AND VELVET CUSHION Phoenix No. 757. 1845. COMPASSES For Masters Pedestal. Made from same New Number issued: Phœnix No.516. For the volume of sacred writings. velvet as was used in the Coronation Robes 1863 Presented in 1919 by Bro. Harry C. of King George VI. Presented by W.Bro. H. Simpson. FOUR SWORDS L. Robinson on 11th April, 1947. Two engraved Phoenix No.757 TWO DEACONS WANDS AND NEW BANNER PHOENIX 516 STANDS W.MASTERS CHAIR Made in silk and donated by Presented b y W.Bro. W. L. Youngman. Returned to Lodge 1858. W.Bro. Canon Richard POIGNARD AND SCABBARD Tydeman, M.A. O.S.M. SENIOR WARDENS CHAIR Presented by W.Bro. F. Long. 1868. P.J.G.W.(Eng). (Approx same age) JUNIOR WARDENS CHAIR (Approx same age) WROUGHT IRON STAND FOR JEWELS REGALIA Sundrie in glass and wood case. Presented by Bro. R. E. Rednall. 1994. WARRANT OF CONSTITUTION PHOENIX No.516 150th Ala Lodge No.5043, 31st May, 1928. COMMEMORATION Bosmere Lodge No.9460, 23rd March WARDEN COLUMNS 1992. Complete with Doric and Corinthian Phoenix and Ala Chapter No.516, 7th metal gilt tops and enamel globes. May 1947. Presented by Ala Lodge No.5043. COLLAR STAND WINE COASTER Crafted in wood and presented by W.Bro. Silver and gold 6” x 2”. Dated coin 1995. A. M. Hart P.J.G.D. to Bosmere Lodge Presented by W.Bro. F. J. Mascall P.P.G.S. No.9460. of W. WOODEN BOX SALVER Presented to Ala Lodge No.5043, by Silver 18”. Donated by Mrs. L. B. Sweet. W.Bro. Capt. C. V. Groves, P.A.G.D.C. Engraved to W.Bro. S. G. Sweet. 1958 containing Chelmsford Lodge 276. GAVEL LECTERN AND PEDESTAL Presented to Ala Lodge No.5043 by The Donated by W.Bro. S. D. Girling, Rt.Hon. the Earl of Stradbroke, Lord P.A.G.D.C.(Eng) in 1998. Lieutenant of Suffolk, Provincial Grand Master, 1957. LIBRARY Vol. 1, 2, 3 by R. NEW BANNER F. Gould 1886. Ala Lodge No.5043, Presented to Ala Lodge No. 5043 by Bro. made in silk and H. W. Pearce 1976. donated by W.Bro. Canon Richard Vol. 1, 2, 3 History of Freemasonry by R. Tydeman, M.A. F. Gould 1886. O.S.M. Vol. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 History of Freemasonry P.J.G.W.(Eng). by R. F. Gould. Vol. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 History of Freemasonry by R. F. Gould. Twenty one vols. 196301985 Quatuor Coronati.

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