History of Lodge St.Andrew 1948 - 1972.
1948
1948 - the year of Bro. J . Mackie (Snr) as R.W. M. was a moderate
year in which 22 members joined the Lodge with 1 Affiliate. Lodge Regular
Meetings were doubled to 2 per month in October (the Second and Fourth
Tuesdays) - the years total of meetings being 12 Regular and 7 Special. The
Working was as always by P.M.s of the Lodge with new names showing; Bros.
Johnstone, G. Glendinning, A. Smillie and D. Shearer. Lodge Livingstone No. 599
also assisted eluder its R.W.M . Bro. Craig. Lodge St. Andrew itself visited
Lodges 505 and 1194 to confer degrees. New applications during the year were
from Bros. D. Bilsland, A. Currie, J. H. Mackie and M . Park. Lodge Benevolence
was in 2 payments totalling £17 to 2 Bros. The Lodge also subscribed £25 to
what is vaguely minuted as “Grand Lodge Centenary. At Grand Lodge Bro. Dr. A.
Buchan had become Grand Secretary. Provincial Grand Lodge made their Annual
Visit Parkhill - were appointed to the British Legion Committee which was
preparing the War Memorial. A £5 Donation was also made to assist this task. At
the Hall itself a Donation of 6 Doz. Glasses was made by Bro. A. Thomson aid
Bro. Gilfind printed the names of the R.W.M.s of the Lodge to date on the
R.W.M.s Board in East. A gas-geyser for hot water was also installed. The
Social Committee continued to show a profit and were heartily congratulated.
During 1948 some £80 was paid in by them - making some £260 in 3 years! They
also bought collecting bags at a cost of £7.10.0. The Treasurers Financial
Statement to September 1948 presented in December was unanimously accepted.
Obituaries reported were of Bros. A. Garroway and at Provincial Grand Lodge -
Bro. J. Pollock P.M./116 and P.G.S.M . Bro. Pollock’s death was a sudden one.
Also, in February, the Lodge lost one of its greatest Pillars; P.M. Bro. T.
McAulay. At the Masonic Funeral Service the Rev. Bro. B. Falconer of Lodge 2 l
5 was the Officiating Minister; the
1949
Meetings in 1949 numbered 21 (18 Regular and 3 special) of which
Bro. A. Thomson chaired 15. No reference is made to illness so we must assume
business commitments caused him to miss some 6 meetings. Initiates for the year
were 22 with 1each Affiliates and Honorary members. Our Honorary member was
Bro. G.
The successful run of some 3 years by the Social Committee appears
here to be interrupted. Its composition underwent a change with Bros. A.
Smillie and T. Malcolm retiring and others, such as Bros. G. Glendinning, A.
Marshall and J. Leggatt, coming on. It was proposed that the late committee
should receive a belated ''night-out'' to supper and a Theatre and the new
Committee set out on its task. During the year following Bro. W. Young donated
some £27 to the Lodge from the Committee. Lodge Annual Ball was in November and
regalia worn by permission of Provincial Grand Lodge. The Nomination and
elections for l 950's Office Bearers led to Bro. W. Young becoming Master
Elect. P.M.s Bros. J. Mackie and A. Anderson were Sub and Dep Masters
respectively with Bros. J. Templeton and R. Glendinning Wardens. Installing Masters
in December were P.M.s Bros. A. Y. Marshall and T. Pettigrew. At Grand Lodge
the new Grand Master was Bro. Sir Charles M. Barclay-Harvey of Kinord.
1950
Bro. W. Young, R.W.M. 1950, in 18 Regular Meetings saw 24 New
Members join the Lodge with 1 Affiliate. Amongst the Degree workers we find
Bros. R. and G. Glendinning, J. McLachlan, J. Leggatt and D. Shearer. Also, at
a Special Meeting, we find Lodge Hamilton, Kilwinning, No. 7, conferring the
Mark Degree at Lodge St Andrew, when 18 Master Masons were advanced. Lodge
Benevolence was in 2 cases where a total of £40 was granted, to one of which
Provincial Grand Lodge added £40 in Annuity. Provincial Grand Lodge made their
Annual Visit, again in April, declared a Clear Minute and congratulated Lodge
upon its healthy financial state. The Provincial Grand Master requested R.W.M.s
not to surrender their Mallets - emblems of Power and Authority to Visiting
Brothers. Whilst it is not so minuted we would assume the Lodge Ceremonial
Mallet should be used in such situations. It was also indicated at this time
that Grand Lodge desired all Daughter Lodges to appoint a Lodge Almoner. A long
list of Obituaries were reported; those of Bros. C. Thomson, A. Andrews, J.
McKay, W. Craig, W. Ainslie, W. Caullay and that of the P.G.D.M. Bro. Ingles.
At the Hall a bill for recent repairs reached £109, the Organ repair £4.10.0
and it was agreed to lay Lino in Ladies Room and Hall Passageways. A leather
case for the R.W.M.s regalia was purchased, as were an Ambulance-Box and 6 White
Jackets for use at the Third Degree. Lodge Property Insurance was taken out at
a Premium of £9 P.A. whilst the Lodge Cottage had a new Tenant, a Miss J.
Mackie, at a Rent of £10 P.A. The Social Committee which had been re-elected
en-bloc early in the year received the resignations of Bros. C. McMillan and
Geo. Glendinning. These were made up by the co-option of Bros. W. Wallace and
Robert Glendinning. During the year the Committee donated to the Lodge the sum
of £24.9.0. Lodge Finances were reviewed and this led to the sums of even and
£200. from the Savings and the Commutation Fee funds being invested in war Loan
at 3.5% interest. At the A.G.M. in November the Financial Statement was found
to contain no Bank Interest on the Income Side. This was challenged by P.M.
Bro. M . Bickett who was assured it would show in 1951. This did not suffice
and it was moved to refer the statement back to Auditors and Treasurer. An
amendment by P.M.s Bros. A. Y. Marshall and A. Nicholson called for its
acceptance and was so carried. The Elections for 1951 gave Bro. J . Templeton
as R.W.M.-e1ect. His Wardens were Bros. R. Glendinning and D. Shearer. The
Lodges first Almoner was Bro. R. Strutt, P. M. Not, we are sure, the Lodges
first Sick Visitor but this was a new ‘’Office“. The Installing Masters in
December were P.M.s Bros. A. Thomson and T. Pettigrew.
1951
1951, a “quiet'' year, was the year of Bro. J . Templeton - himself
a quiet man. Some 20 meetings led to 20 Candidates joining dodge. The Work
being carried out by such as D.Hood P.M. and Bros. R. Glendinning, D. Shearer
and A. Anderson. Lodge No. 557, High Blantyre, assisted on 2 occasions one of
which was Mark Degree in May. Their R.W. M. was Bro. Frew. Lodge St. Andrew
travelled once again to Lodge Hurlford No. 505. Lodge Rutherglen No. 116 also
visited “524” when a lecture on Freemasonry was delivered by Bro. Johnstone,
the R.W.M. of 116 being Bro. Hamilton. Lodge Benevolence reached £30 for 2
cases and some 7 Obituaries were noted; Bros. L. Currie, T. Kelly, T. Stark, D.
Hendry, J. Callagan, A. Wllson, and that of P.M. Bro. T. Lennox. In the Hall
the Lodge was obliged to create an Emergency Exit which cost £68 and at Lodge
Cottage ceiling repairs became necessary. The Social Committee Donations by
Bro. W. Young were £25.1 .0. The R.W.M. gave reports of visits to the Opening
of the New Masonic Home, Ault Wharrie, at Dunblane and to a meeting of the
“Masonic Benevolence Council No. 6” at
1952
1952, Bro. Glendinning's year as Master was, as we shall see, a
momentous one. Not however in a creditable manner which was unfortunate, and
ironic, for the Lodge never had a more meticulous Master. However, despite
set-backs, there were 33 Initiates and 1 each of Affiliates and Honorary Members.
These were admitted during some 17 Regular Meetings to which, perforce, 8
Special had to be added. Degree Work was by Bros. Brown, Tennant, Hood and
Grant assisted by Lodges 458 and 1231 under their R.W.M.s Bros. Twynholm and
Lindsay. The Working for Lodge 458 was by P. M. - Bro. J. Orr a well known
Brother indeed. At this time he received Honorary Membership of St. Andrew. The
Mark Degree in 1952 was by Lodge Rutherglen No. 116 under its R.W.M. Bro.
Mclvor. Bro. J. McLachlan J.W., reported attending the consecration of Lodge
Nitshill No. 1478. A Bro. Yeamon of the English Constitution who had attended a
number of Lodge meetings was bade farewell by the members on his returning to
Bro. W. Young P.M. received a Masonic Funeral at which Bro. Rev. W.
Wright of Lodge 116 Officiated. It was in January of the year that the Lodge
experienced a sever set-back to its Administrative Working. The shocking and
saddening situation occupied the lodge and its members for most of that year.
Following the Installing of the Lodges new Treasurer, Bro. I. Christie, it was
revealed that the Lodges accounts were some £1650 short, in its Book-Keeping,
prior to his assuming Office. The Brother concerned made full restitution
before the year was ended. The Lodge was moved to expel the offending Brother
but this was reduced to expulsion “sine-die'' by Grand Committee in
1953
Bro. D. Shearer, R.W.M. 1953, chaired all of his 18 Regular
Meetings. 16 New Members joined the Lodge and noted Applications were from Jas.
Hutchison, H. Morrison and, for Affiliation Bro. J . McLatchie. The R.W.M.
himself took part in Degree working assisted by Bros. Tennant and T. Mitchell.
Lodges No. 1265 and 426 also took part under their R.W.M as Bros. Jamieson and
Taylor, respectively. Lodge No. 426 conferred the Mark Degree. During the year
the Lodge donated £10.10.0 to the Coronation Fund; £10.0.0 to the Masonic Homes
Fund and £2.2.0 to the Earl Haig. In the Hall interior painting cost £111 and
it was also agreed to purchase Slippers, Hoodwinks and 2 Wardens Cases. The
Wardens reported visiting Lodge St. John, Busby's presentation to P.M. Bro. J.
Orr and the Lodge said farewell to Bro. J. Peacock - off to
1954
During 1954, Bro Jonathan McLachan R.W.M., held 18 Regular
Meetings, all of which he Chaired himself. The Degree working was well shared
out among some 10 Brothers of the Lodge and
Provincial Grand Lodge made their Annual visit in April; Bro. R.
McMenemy P.G.M. and 24 of his Colleagues. A Clear Minute was inscribed for Bro.
D. Shearers “Year” and approval given to the presentation of Distinguished
Service Diplomas to Bros. A. Y. Marshall, P.M. and to Bro. R. Strutt, P.M.
Permission was also given to hold the next Installation on the Saturday
following the second Tuesday in December but the Lodge was directed to amend
its Byelaws accordingly. Brother James C. Leggatt was Elected R.W.M. for the
Year 1955. He was Installed such in December by Bros. T. Johnstone P.G.D.M. and
H. Blain P.G.S.M. This ended the Year as R.W.M. for Bro. Jonathan, as he was to
become affectionally known, but his work in the Lodge was far from over.
1955
Brother James Leggatt, R.W.M. in 1955 was very much “Local boy”
and, not surprisingly, an Agricultural Engineer. He had joined the Lodge in
1939 and he had, as always worked well on its behalf. During his year as R.W.M.
there were 20 meetings of the Lodge - all Chaired by himself. 22 Candidates
were Initiated during the year by the Lodge P.M.s assisted by Bros. J.
At a Special Meeting in April Distinguished Service Diplomas were
presented to Bros. A.Y.
1956
In 1956 Brother John Tennant R.W.M. had Bros. J. Parkhill as
Secretary and R. Glendinning, Treasurer. The R.W.M. chaired all of the 19
Meetings held and 19 new Members joined the Lodge. Brother J. Downie P.M./ 557
was the one Honorary Member. Deputations were received from Lodges No. 557 and
1499 headed by their R.W.M.S. Bros. J. Coates and O'Hara respectively. The Lodge
itself travelled to lodges 116, 510 and 557 on Official Visits. The R.W.M found
it necessary to call on Brethren of the Lodge to form a Soclal Committee. As a
result he was joined by Bros. Leggatt, G. Glendinning, J. Mackie (Jnr.), A.
Bain, H. Morrison and W. Wallace (Jnr.) in forming one. Their efforts are
reflected in the conducting, during the year, of a Burns Supper, Basket Whist,
a Bus Run and a Children's Christmas Party. A donation of 15/- was received
from the O.E.S. toward the Christmas Party. Hall charges caused some unrest
among those who hired the Hall but he Lodge held firm. The local Legion and the
O.E.S. were granted the use of the Hall Free on at least some specific
occasions. Some consideration was given to requesting the Let or
Provincial Grand Lodge made their Annual Visit in February. A
''Clear Minute'' was inscribed but the Financial Statement had to be re-written
to adjust some clerical errors. The New Regalia, cost £148, was Dedicated in
October by Rev. Bro. Philp of Lodge No. 27. The death of Bro. R. Strutt, P.M.
holder of a distinguished Service Diploma, occurred on 20th April. This led to
a Masonic Funeral in traditional manner, when the R.W.M. and the Rev. W. Wright,
P.G.C. officiated. 9 P.M .s. and a number of Bros. attended. The death was also
reported off Bro. J. Richardson who joined Lodge in 1898. Brother George
Glendinning was Elected R.W. M. for 1957 and, in December was Installed by his
father, Brother Robert Glendinning P. M., assisted by Brother David Shearer
P.M. At Grand Lodge Bro. Lord MacDonald had ended his 4 years as Grand Master
and was succeeded by Archibald, The Earl of Eglinton and Winton.
1957
Brother Geo Glendinning, in l 957, held 21 Meetings all but one of
which he was able to Chair. Degree work was carried out regularly by the Lodge
Brethren assisted by visitation from Lodges 116, 1265 and Sandyford, and as a
result 29 Candidates were initiated. There was also 1 Affiliate. The Mark
Degree was in the hands of Bro. R. Glendinning P.M. Treasurer who advanced 19
Brothers to that Degree.
An invitation was received to the 150th Anniversary of Lodge No.
215 Strathaven. Grand Lodge issued several new edicts during the year. One that
the maximum number of Degrees in one year be 25 and the other that the Minimum
Joining Fee be raised to £10.10.0. The Minimum Test and Mark Fees be 10/- and
5/- respectively and that Life Membership be 10 times the Lodge Test Fee. Lodge
Collections through the Year were as follows: General £2.0.0, Tea £1.3.0,
Harmony £5.4.0. For Provincial and Grand Lodge Benevolence the sums of £2.18.0
and £8.15.2 were collected respectively. Lodge Benevolence lay in the Sums of
£10, £15 and £20 to respective Brethren and to the Earl Haig Fund £2.2.0. The
re-installation of Bro. R. McMenemy by Lord McDonald, Past Grand Master took
place at Renfrew on l 8th April. The R.W.M., S.W., J.W. Secretary and Treasurer
were sent by the Lodge to represent them at this event. Provincial Grand Lodge
Annual Visit to Lodge St Andrew was on 12th March when a “Clear Minute'' was
recorded. Brother R. Glendinning P. M./ 524 was, by then Provincial Grand
Standard-Bearer. The Obituaries of 2 P.M.s were reported - Those of Bros. H.
Barr and Jas. Mackie (Snr). Brother Mackies' Funeral was a Masonic one at which
the R.W.M . and the Rev Bro. Philp of Lodge
A proposal to change Lodge meeting night to a Monday was defeated
and a request for a Sunday let of the Hall refused. It was agreed to purchase
25 Master Mason aprons and a Cupboard to contain Glassware. The Purchase of a
Table light for Secretary's Table was not necessary as one was gifted by P.M.
Bro. J. McLachlan. This ended a successful year for Bro. G . Glendinning who
was destined still to serve many years in the Ledge. Bro. Jas. Mackie, Jnr. was
Elected R .W. M. for the year 1958. His installing Master was P.M. Bro. A .
1958
1958, a year in which 22 meetings of the Lodge were held, saw Bro.
Jas. Mackie in the Chair on every occasion. 26 New Members and 3 Affiliates
joined the Lodge in that year. The Affiliates were Bros. I . Bayne, J. Cantley
and J. F. Nicol of whom more anon. At the First Degrees conferred by P.M. Bro.
J . Tennant in February that year, Bro D. MacDonald was Initiated.
1959
Brother Mitchell, in his year as R.W. M., 1959, held 22 Meetings,
Chaired all and entered 25 New Members. 2 Brothers Affiliated to the Lodge and
21 received their Mark at the hands of Bro. A. Anderson P.M. In the Working of
Degrees the R.W.M. was well served by the Lodge P.M.s together with Bros. T.
Greig, J. Dunn, J. D. Pryde and J. Bayne. Lodges 116, 458 and 1194 visited the
Lodge and conferred Degrees, the latter 2 being headed by their R.W.M.s. Bros.
Lees and Wood, respectively. Bro. Jonathan McLachlan P.M. became Lodge Almoner
and was given 6 Assistants to endeavour to cover the Lodges increasing area.
Benevolence in this year was of £5 to the Daughter of a deceased Brother.
Collections for Provincial and Grand Lodge Benevolence Reached £3.6.1 and
£9.12.4 respectively. Each was made up to £15.15.0. Average collections in the
Lodge were; General £3.15.0 and Tea £2.4.0. New Entries appearing at this time
were “Lodge Social Income“. The average received over 6 Meetings was £25.11.0.
The Erection of the Proposed New Lodge proceeded apace. Lodge St. Andrew with
Lodge St. John, Busby had supported the Application for a Charter. This the new
Lodge received in May - their number being 1557 and their name, Lodge Douglas.
Lodge St. Andrew, having approved a let of their Hall to Lodge Douglas, in the
January, for the 3rd Friday of each month were asked in February to change this
to every and Friday, from the September. As this conflicted with other Regular
Bookings the arrangement lapsed. In the September a request was received from
the new Royal Arch Chapter in the Town, East Kilbride No. 781, for the let of
the Hall on each and Friday of the Month. This was agreed and taken up.
Proposals made in Lodge at this time called for it to be extended if possible.
It was agreed to contact the E.K.D.C. with a view to acquiring more ground
adjoining. The setting up of a Building Fund was referred to the Finance
Committee. Enquiries had also been received from E.K.D.C. with regard to the
demolition of the Lodges Old Cottage, now in a state of disrepair. The
obituaries were reported of no less than 5 Brothers in 1959. Brothers A.
Arthur, W. Young (Initiated 1891), G Wallace, W. Wallace (Snr) and T Pettigrew
P.M. The Funeral of Bro. T. Pettigrew was a Masonic one at which the Rev. Bro.
W. Wright Officiated. On a happier note we find recorded the appointment of Bro.
R. Currie P. M. as a Steward at Grand Lodge and a visit from a Bro. R.
Stibbings of Lodge No. 6442 E.C., who was Provincial Grand Deacon in
Warwickshire. The Instruction Class arranged a lecture by Bro. R. Kemp P.M./
1265 on the Compass Club and Invitations were received to attend Lodge Douglas,
and also to the Dedication of a Masters Chair to the Memory of the Rev. Bro. D.
Seath P. M./ 1265.
Provincial Grand Lodges Annual Visit in February led to a Clear
Minute for 1958. The Provincial Grand Master Bro. R. McMenemy urged the Lodge
to revive their Annual Divine Service. This they did, along with Lodges 458 and
Langside when the attendance was high. The Election in November gave Bro. W. H.
Wallace the office of R.W.M. in 1960. And in December he was installed by Bros.
G. Glendinning and R. Glendinning P.M.s. A request to Provincial Grand Lodge
for permission to wear Regalia at the Annual Dance was not granted. Lodge
Hallkeeper was now Bro. C. Limmond.
1960
Brother William Wallace in his year as Master conducted 18 Regular
and 6 Special Meetings. He Chaired them all and introduced 27 New Members. 4
Brothers were also Affiliated at this time. Degree working was carried out by
the Lodge P.M.s assisted by a variety of other Brethren. Amongst these were The
Masonic Pipers from Lodge Livingstone No. 599 with Bro. Moore P.M in charge;
Lodge Abercrombie No. 1430 headed by Bro. A. Watson P.M. and from East
Kilbrides new Lodge: Lodge Douglas No. 1557 with its R.W.M. Bro. D. S. Reid.
Also from Lodge 557, Bro. Bauchop R.W.M. and Lodge 458 Bro. A. G. Murray R.W.M.
The Degree conferred by Lodge No. 458 was by Bro. James Orr P.M. Two Mark
Degrees were conferred in this Calendar year by P.M.s Bros. A. Anderson and R.
Glendinning. The Lodge Extension continued to cause concern to the Lodge with
Plans drawn up, rejected and re-drawn. At the end of the year Brethren were
loath to accept the verdict of a Mr. Dick that the Lodge was not suitable for
Extension and Renovation and that they should consider a completely new building.
Donations received for the Building Fund included £7.2.0 from a Bro. R. McGill
and £60 from the “St.Andrews Circle Club”. A Bazaar held during the year, and
opened by Mrs. Barr, realized £116.2.1. The Heating Boiler, faulty was agreed
to be repaired at a cost of £20. Lodge Collections averaged £3.18.0 per meeting
and Tea Fund £2.11.0. Income from the Social Side averaged £23.14.0. Lodge
Annual Balls held in the
Provincial Grand Lodge gave a “clear minute'' for the previous
years working at their visit in February. A collection taken for Provincial
Grand Lodge Benevolence (£3.2.6) was augmented to £15.15.0. At the Election in
November, Bro. J. B. Parkhill, for 13 years lodge Secretary, was Elected R.W.M.
for 1961. The new Lodge Secretary was P.M. Bro. J . Leggatt. The Grand Lodge
Benevolent Collection is not recorded but a report is given of a Grand Lodge
Annuity of £50 per year to a Lodge Widow. At Grand Lodge the Office of Grand
Master was now occupied by Bro. Andrew, 11th Earl Elgin and 15th Earl
Kincardine.
1961
Brother John Parkhill, R.W. M., chaired all but 2 of his 22 meetings
held in 1961. New members totalled 27 and 2 Brothers Affiliated to the Lodge;
Brothers T. Harrison and A. Fraser. 11 Brethren received their Mark at the
hands of P.M. Bro. G. Glendinning. Degree Working during the year was carried
out by the Lodge P.M.s assisted by Bros. R. McLaren and H. Morrison and also by
Lodges 116 and 1557. A Unique First Degree took place in September when no less
than 6 R.W.M .s, all resident in
Brother Thomas Greig received the Lodges Nomination as R.W. M. for
1962. Duly Elected he was Installed R.W.M. in December by Bros. Jonathan
McLachlan P.M. and D. Shearer P.M. Brother J. Leggatt P.M. continued as Lodge
Secretary.
1962
Luckily for the Lodge in l 962 Bro. T. Greig was a better Master
than he ever was a Singer. With this assessment we are sure he will be happy to
agree. He Chaired all of his 23 Meetings, enjoyed an average attendance of 79
and there were 23 New members in that year. 2 Brothers Affiliated and there
were 2 Honorary Members Bros. Blain and Denholm of Provincial Grand Lodge.
Assisting the R.W.M. in Degree working were the Lodge P.M.s with Bros. D,
Marshall, N . Robb, A. Fraser and W. Carrick. Lodges No. 116 and 1557 also
conferred degrees whilst led by Bros. T. Black and Q. Watt respectively. The
Mark Degree in May was by P.M . Bro. A. Anderson when 21 Bros. were advanced.
The Joint Divine Service with Lodge Douglas, 1557, in April was well attended.
Lodge benevolence was extended in £10 to 2 Brothers; the Masonic Homes £3.3.0
and to Provincial Grand Lodge and Grand Lodge £15.15.0 and £25.0.0
respectively. Donations of £10, anon, and £61 from ”St. Andrew Circle Club“
brought the Building Fund to £430.4.0. The Social Fund surplus for the year was
£3.1.4 having promoted a Theatre Night and Dinner Dance amongst other
Functions. The Passing of 2 P.M.s of the Lodge occurred in 1962. Those of Bros.
I. Mitchell and A. Y. Marshall. Bro. A. Y. Marshall received a Masonic Funeral
at which the Rev. W. Wright Officiated. Bros. H. Blain P.G.M. and W. Binnie
P.G.S.M. attended. Bro. H. Blain of Provincial Grand Lodge had been Installed
P.G.M. in February when Bro. R.McMenemy reached the end of 11 years service as
P.G.M. Provincial Grand Lodge visited the Lodgc in March declaring a “Clear M
inute” and again in May when the P.G.M. dedicated the New Altar and Wardens
Boxes donated by Bro. Jas. F. Nicol. A noted visitor during the year was a
Brother K. Buchanan from the Friendly Isles. 2 Brothers of the Lodge, Bros.
Hood and Hickinson, leaving to live in
1963
Bro. Hugh Morrison chaired all of his 21 Meetings in 1963.
Candidates for the year numbered 23 and there were 4 Affiliates with 3 Honorary
Members. Among the Affiliates was Bro. William Carrick and the 3 Honorary
Members were Bros. Binnie, Pate and the Rev. W. Wright of Provincial Grand
Lodge. Degree working by the P.M.s and Lodge Members was supplemented by
Deputations from Lodges 1557, 458 and 557 with Bros. Reid,
Provincial Grand Lodge paid its Annual Visit in April when a “Clear
Minute'' was inscribed. Average Attendance had been 71 and Collections £3. 19.0
per meeting. The Social Fund showed a deficit of £19. During 1963 the Children
of Lodge Members were taken to the Pavilion Theatre and a Bus Run in June
proved successful. Brother James McLatchie was Elected R.W.M. by the Brethren.
He was Installed by Bro. J . Maitland P.M. Lodge Ellangowan No. 716 assisted by
Bro. W. Wallace P.M./ 524. A large Deputation from Lodge St. Mungo No. 27, of
Glasgow, Bro. McLatchie's Mother Lodge, was present.
1964
Brother James McLatchie, R.W. M. in 1964, had a busy and varied
year. Hall re-building and plans occupied a great deal of the time of all
concerned. If they did not in fact come to pass it was not for the want of
trying. During the years 23 Meetings were held and the R.W.M. chaired all but
one. 25 Candidates and l Affiliate were entered, the Degree work being carried
out by Lodge P.M as assisted by Bros. A. McLachlan. N. McMillan and W. Carrick.
Bros. J. Maitland, P.M., 716, Installing Master also conferred an F.C. Degree.
Lodges Nos. 27, 458, 1265 and 1557 under their Masters Bros. Smith, Moore,
Campbell and Cameron also assisted whilst on Deputation to the Lodge. P.M.
Bros. A. Anderson conferred the Mark Degree on 28 Master Masons. Lodge Average
Attendance showed an increase to 78 as did Average collection to £4.12.0. The
Re-building Plans, their return long awaited in 1963, came to hand in March
1964. They now, “had to go to Provincial Grand Lodge” as a courtesy it seems.
In June they were declared acceptable to Lanarkshire County Council but, in
August. not so by the
In a drive to bring members back to the Lodge it was decided to
visit as many as possible, to inquire into the reasons for absence, and to
prevail upon them to return. Lodge Office Bearers were requested to clean their
own Regalia and it was agreed to replace the Sashes and Gauntlets of the R.W.M.
and Wardens. Brother Neil McMillan Jnr was Elected R.W. M. for 1965 by Lodge
Brethren. His Installation was by P.M.s Bro. J . McLachlan and T. Greig. At
Grand Lodge the Grand Master Lord Bruce ended 4 years in Office and was
succeeded by Bro. Major Sir Ronald Orr-Ewing.
1965
In Brother Neil McMillan, Jnr, R.W.M., 1965 we have, surely, the
genuine Lodge St. Andrew "local-boy". As we have seen, the rivalties
of "locals" and "New Townies" dated back to 1947
approximately. Brother Neil was the son of Bro. Neil McMillan, Snr, P.M. in
1934 and Great-Grandson of the Bro. N . McMillan, Founder Member and Senior
Deacon in 1872. This was a great tradition for our R.W.M of 1965 to live up to.
Bro. Neil chaired all off his 22 meetings, Initiated 20 Candidates and received
5 Brothers as Affiliates. The Degree work was by Lodge P.M.s assisted by Bros.
N . Robb, W. McLachlan Jnr, R. Orr, A. Fraser and A . Mackie. Lodges No. 27,
116, 458 and 1557 also took part whilst on Deputation to the Lodge. The first
three were headed by Bros. Jarvis, Marrow and McCourty respectively. The Mark
Degree was in the hands of Bro. J. McLatchie I.P.M. when 21 Bros. were
advanced. The Building Fund continued to receive donations; £200 from Social
Committee via Bro. W. Wallace, £9 per Bro. A. Wales, £3.10.0 per Bro. D. Nelson
U.S.A., £2.16.0 per Bro. J. Cantley and £5 Anon - a total of £220.6.0. An
Appeal was made to the Brethren to consider letting the lodge have interest
free loans. Bro. McLatchie I.P.M. thanked all who had assisted the Lodge
Bazaar. Lodge average Collections had increased, yet again, to £6.6.0.
Bro. D. P. Marshall C.A. had become Lodge treasurer. Lodge Almoner
was now Bro. Tom Harrison, who was quite tireless in performing this duty.
Lodge Benevolence was £5 to a brother and £15.15.0 each to Provincial and Grand
Lodges. The Building Fund stood at £446.10.0. Provincial Grand Lodge visited
the Lodge in March and declared a “Clear Minute“. The Deaths were reported of 3
P.M.s Bros. R. Aitkenhead, M . Bickett and W . McMartin. And also, of our
Canadian “pioneer'' Bro. J . Gilchrist. Brother 5 James F. Nicol was Elected
R.W.M. for 1966 by the Brethren and Installed as such by Bros. T. Greig and J.
McLatchie P.M.s in the December.
1966
Brother Nicol held 18 Regular and 1 Special meeting in 1966,
entering 19 Candidates and 4 Affiliates in that time. Among the Affiliates were
Bros. Chas. McCall and W. Gilmour (Snr). Lodges Nos. 458, 1230, 1265 and 1557
conferred Degrees whilst on visits to the Lodge headed by Bros. Wylie, May,
Esler and Gibbons respectively. P. M. Bro. A. Watson of Lodge Abercrombie also
took part in the Working. The Mark Degree was conferred by Bro. J. McLachlan
P.M. on 16 Master Masons. Deputations were also received from Lodges 116 and
307 with Bros. Morrow and Hannah in charge. Provincial Grand Lodge made their
Annual Visit in March headed by the P.G. M. Bro. H. Blain. A “Clear Minute''
was inscribed. Lodge Benevolence during this year was of £5 to a Brother and in
the sums of £26.5.0 and £50 to Provincial and Grand Lodges respectively. The
Building Fund benefited by 2 sums from the Social Committee of £200 and £300.
The Finance and the Action Committee in a combined report declared that the sum
of £5000 was now available for the rebuilding of the Hall, as and when the
Plans were passed by the Dean-of-Guild. Brother Walter MacLachlan (Jnr), Junior
Warden, who was emigrating to
1967
Brother A. McLachlan, R.W.M. in 1967, for many years a hard-working
Brother behind the scenes, conducted 21 Meetings during his year and in that
time added 23 new members to the Roll plus an Affiliated Member. He was
assisted in the Working by Lodge P.M.s and a large number of Visiting Lodges.
These were Lodges 116. 307, 458, 606, 1265, 1430 and 1557 headed by Bros.
Morrison, Carrey. Nichol, Hughes, Henderson, Allison and Govan. The Mark Degree
was conferred by P.M. Bro. J. McLatchie on 21 Master Masons. 2 Brothers
reported attending Lodge Consecrations; Bro. J. Pollock to
1968
Brother Alex Wales conducted 20 meetings in all and entered 20
Candidates plus 2 Affiliates. In this he was assisted by Lodge P.M.s and Bro.
R. Orr together with Deputations from Lodges 116, 307, 458, 1186 Stoneyburn and
1557 headed by Bros. Innes, Little, Linton, Mooney, W. Harper. The Mark Degree
was conferred by Bro. J. McLatchie. P.M. A number of Brethren of the Lodge
accompanied Bro. J. McLatchie to Lodge Girvan No. 237 when he and Bro. A.
Gibbons P. M./1557 Installed the R.W.M. and his Office-bearers. At Lodge St.
Andrew the Lodge Members were greatly pleased to hear that a member of the
Lodge, Bro. Major Robert Aitkenhead, had been Installed as R.W.M. of Lodge Lord
Kitchener No. 3402 (E.C.) in Cyprus. Lodge Benevolence that year equalled
£26.5.0 to Provincial Grand Lodge And £50.0.0 to Grand Lodge. Lodge Average
Collection was now £7.1.0. Bro. W. Carrick, on behalf of the Social Committee,
donated £400 to the Building Fund which had now reached £4736. Provincial Grand
Lodge made its Official Visit in March headed by the P.G.M. Bro. W. Binnie. He
was accompanied by 21 of his colleagues in Provincial Grand Lodge. A “Qualified
Clear Minute'' was inscribed by them for the year 1967 Working in the Lodge. In
their Minute was noted, “All Fees to Grand Lodge appear to have been paid but
are not yet vouched'' The P.G.M. presented a Diploma as Past Provincial Grand
Senior Warden to P.M. Bro. R. Glendinning. The P.G.M. returned in May with a
Deputation and presented to Bro. Glendinning, on behalf of the Lodge, a Jewel
as Past Provincial Grand Senior Warden. He also presented, to P.M. Bro. J.
Shedden, again on behalf of the Lodge, a Diploma of Distinguished Membership.
P.M. Bro. N. McMillan (Snr) was also to receive a Diploma of Distinguished
Membership but was not present to receive it Bro. Neil was in indifferent
health at this time. At the Nomination and Election Meeting Bro. R. Orr was
Elected R.W.M. for 1969. His Installing Masters in December were P.M.s Bros. W.
Wallace and J. Leggatt. The Treasurers Books had not been Audited in time for
the A.G.M. in November and, in the December, the Treasurer, Bro. D. P. Marshall
C.A., resigned. At Grand Lodge the new Grand Master was Bro. David
Liddell-Granger of Ayton.
1969
Brother Robert Orr took up Office as R.W.M. for 1969 at a time when
Lodge Administration was in disarray. It is with regret that these words are
penned, and having done so, one is obliged to say something of why this was so.
The “unsteadiness” of this period, which was not finally Cleared until May 1970,
stemmed from the fact that for a number of years the presentation of Lodge
Annual Statement of Account had been of a different nature to that
traditionally practiced; to the non-production of this statement at 2 A.G.M.
Meetings; to misunderstanding of Lodge's Social Fund and its intermissions -
all of which led to a “Qualified Clear Minute'' in March 1968 and yet another
in January 1969. The Lodge itself, on 14th January 1969, received the Balance
Sheet for 1968. It was accepted. Provincial Grand Lodge, making an early
Official Visit in January, on the 28th, gave a ''Clear Minute'' but once again
qualified this with a rider, “. . .we are not satisfied that the Amounts in
each Account have been correctly allocated and call on the Secretary and
Treasurer to approach P.G.L. for advice in making corrective adjustments . . .”
The R.W.M., Bro. R. Orr, conducted 20 Meetings during 1969, missing
one only due to illness. 24 New Members were added to the Roll and Degree Work
was carried out by the Lodge P.M.s. and Brother James Clark. Assistance was
provided also by lodges 116, 307, 1265, 1536 and 1557. The Visiting Lodges were
led by Bros Watson, Dove, Henderson, Reid and Belshaw. Bro. L. Belshaw, R.W.M.
l 557, it was noted, was the First Initiate of Lodge Douglas to attain the
Chair of the Lodge. The Mark Degree in May was conferred by P.M. Bro. J.
McLachlan upon 20 Members. An Invitation to Lodge Rutherglen No. 116's Divine
Service to mark their 200th Anniversary was received. A number of Bros.
attended. A report about Lodge 116's 200th Anniversary and Dinner was also
given by the writer. He also reported on the Opening Ceremony at the Third
Masonic Home in Dunblane. P.M. Bro. J. McLachlan also reported a visit to Lodge
Lewis, Whitehaven, E.C., accompanied by Bro. D. MacDonald, S.W. Bro Roy Adams,
Marshal, was obliged to resign his orifice as he was to leave to take up
residence in
Masonic Hall, Kittoch Street. Before the reconstruction in 1970-1.
1970
The strained Administrative position had not as yet been resolved
when, Bro. D. MacDonald, began his year as R.W.M. Happily this was accomplished
in a short time. In December 1969 the P.G.M. directed that P.M. Bro. R.
Glendinning would be Lodge Treasurer, “Pro Tem”. This was in no way a
reflection on the Lodges elected Treasurer, Bro. J. Alexander, but a charge on
Bro. Glendinning to bring the Lodges Financial Returns to an acceptable state.
Bro. R. Glendinning, referring to the ''mixed up Funds'' of the Lodge,
recommended that all accounts, including Social Accounts, be read in Lodge
before payment: that more than one estimate be taken for all Lodge Harmony
catering and that Lodge Licence be most strictly confined to use of the Lodge
only. He also later recommended that Social Fund Monies should NOT be used to
purchase Stocks for any body other than the Lodge. It was agreed that a Stock
Audit be taken. This was taken on the 4th May by P.M.s G. Glendinning, H.
Morrison and Bro. R. Aitkenhead. Provincial Grand Lodge made their Official
Visit on 14th April 1970 headed by the P.G.M. Bro. Wm. Binnie. He was
accompanied by 24 of his colleagues. There was in fact a total of 120 Brethren
present. A £Clear Minute'' was inscribed but it was noted that the Financial
Statement was not yet ready for presentation. During the Competent Business of
the Lodge that evening an Account due to Tennent Caledonian of £417 was read
and passed for payment - the first such of its kind. A Second Degree was
conferred the same evening by P.M. Bro. A. Wales, and the R.W.M., reminding the
Brethren that the present Hall was now 60 years old, described the efforts made
in 1910 to erect the Hall and called on all to give the same unstinted service
to the Extending and Renovating about to take place. The P.G.M ., at his
Visitations directed that all Finances were to be in order within l Month. On
April 28th a vital Finance Committee Meeting took place, and on the 5th of May,
the “Clear letter” required by the P.G.M. was signed by the Administrative Office
Bearers. 'This was passed at once to the P.G.M. and, being accepted, the
Financial tribulations of the Lodge, which had lasted too long, were at an end.
In the October of the year, 1970, the Treasurer's report, Audited, was accepted
by the Lodge. The new Hall Building Action Committee consisted of the R.W.M.,
S.W ., J.W., I .P. M ., whereas., Secretary, P.M. Bro. T. Greig and Bro. G.
Wilson Snr. In February the E.K.D.C. agreed to Lodge plans for reconstruction
toward the front of the building. In March the Committee met Messrs. Hawk and
Crossan, Architects to discuss the Plans, Costs and Clerking of the Work. It
was decided to call for 6 tenders to the Work and to request a Bridging loan of
£5000 from the Provincial Building Society. We're monthly repayments were
learnt to be £55. Provincial Grand Lodge were requested to acknowledge the
Lodges intention and this was done. A11 were urged to expedite the Working and
its activities. 3 Estimates to the Work were received and that of the Barrhead
Builders Ltd., was selected. Their estimate was £11,362, and Work to be
completed 20 weeks after its “on-site'' beginning. It was now necessary for the
Lodge to find a Temporary Home during rebuilding. The Scout Hall in
During 1970 21 Meetings were held and the Writer had the good
fortune to be able to Chair all of these. 26 new members were added to the Roll
together with 3 Affiliates and 1 Honorary Member. Among the Affiliates was Bro.
R. R. Campbell. The Honorary Member was Bro. Jas. Hughes P.M., Lodge Rosslyn,
No. 606. Bro. Hughes, an absolute pillar of the Lodge Rosslyn, had always made
the members of Lodge St. Andrew No. 524 so very welcome and assisted greatly in
arranging our visits to Rosslyn Chapel. The Degree working of the Lodge was
carried out by the Lodge P.M.s assisted by Bro. K. Hutchison and others. Also
by Visiting Deputations from Lodges 307, 606, 1265, 1536 and 1557 headed by
Bros. Gray, Bain, Smart, Hamilton and Pettigrew respectively. Bro. W. Carrick
passed the sum of £400 from the “Development Fund” to Treasurer for Lodge
Building Fund and asked that £180 be set aside to purchase the Gas Boiler for
the New Halls Central Heating Plant. Lodge Benevolence was in the sums of £15
to a widow and £20 each to Provincial Grand Lodge and Grand Lodge Benevolent
Funds. Lodge Average Collection equalled £6.19.0. The New Centenary Fund,
collected so steadily by P.M. Bro. Jas. Nicol had reached £25.5.0 over the 2
years to date. Over this period too the sum of £1172 was drawn from the Sale of
Refreshments. Lodge Attendance in 1970 equalled an average of 84. After the
recess the Lodge met as stated in Scout Hall,
1971
The first day of Bro. W. Carrick's year, 1971, was marred by the
sudden death of the hard-working P.M. Bro. R. Glendinning, Lodge Treasurer.
Brother Robert, as was related, was a Past S.W. of the Provincial Grand Lodge
of Renfrewshire East. His son George, P.M. Bro. G. Glendinning, was Elected and
Installed in the Office of Treasurer in February. The Obituaries were also
reported of Bros. R. Cranston and J. Whyte later in the year. In the December of
1971 too, the Province as a wholes suffered a great loss in the passing of Bro.
S. Love, P.P.G.M. The Office of llodge Secretary too had a new occupant - Bro.
John B. Parkhill P.M., who had previously served as Secretary for some 13
years. During 1971 Bro. W. Carrick arranged some 23 Meetings, 18 Regular and 5
Special. Unfortunately, due to a lengthy illness, lasting some 6 months in the
middle of the year, he was able to Chair 16 only. Nevertheless 28 New members
were added to the Lodge Roll - the Working being carried out by Lodge P.M.s
with the aid of Bro. A. Smillie. Lodges 307, 458 and 1557 also assisted when on
Deputations headed by Bros. Munro, Holt and Crichton respectively. The Mark
Degree was held on September 4th when 18 M.M.s were advanced by P.M. Bro. J.
McLachlan. Of this meeting, more anon. Provincial Grand Lodge made their visit
of Inspection in March headed by the P.G.M. Bro. R. Denholm. An unqualified
Clear Minute was inscribed by them for the Financial and Administrative year of
1970. The financial return under review was in fact for a period of 2 years
combined, thus ending officially all the anxiety created over a number of
years. The Installation of Bro. R. Denholm as P.G.M. was announced as 17th
April in the Prince of Wales Halls, Renfrew. Both the Provincial and Grand
Lodges acknowledged our Invitations to them to attend Lodge Centenary Meeting
and Dinner on Saturday 16th September 1972. The Centenary Committees reported
that the East Kilbride Town Council's Ballerup Hall had been booked to contain
all of the Lodges Centenary Meeting and Dinner. Invitations and Prices were
agreed and a “Book” to assist Brethren to save for “The Day”' proposed by the
Writer, was agreed. This “Book” to be controlled by the Proposer. It was at
this time too that Decimal coinage was introduced. The Lodge was pleased to
hear, about this time, of a Brother of the Lodge. James Hutchison. having been
made provost of Rutherglen. The Secretary was directed to send the
Congratulations of the Lodge to Bro. Hutchison. Small loans to the Building
Fund now amounted to £276. Lets and Charges to be made in the New Hall, once
ready, were referred to Halls and Finance Committees. (These 2 Committees had
been meeting together for some time.) They recommended later that Lodge lets
should be Monday to Thursday for Meetings, and Friday/Saturday for Socials.
This was agreed. A list of Charges recommended was also agreed. For the purpose
of advising companion bodies of these decisions and to discuss mutual concerns,
the Halls Finance Committees met with Lodge Douglas, The East Kilbride Royal
Arch Chapter No. 781 and the local Branch of the Order of the Eastern Star. All
who took part considered it a useful meeting and the Lodge was thanked for its
considerate step. Unfortunately only the O.E.S. have, to date, been able to
take up lets in the New Hall. The Lodge Extension and Renovation was completed
in June - in the event however it took longer. It was agreed that Keys to the
Hall would be held by the Treasurer and the Assistant Secretary; Bros. G.
Glendinning and T. Greig P.M.s. Bros. Glendinning would have the sole key to
Spirits Cupboard. It was in April that the R.W.M. Bro. W. Carrick first took
ill and was prevented, much to his chagrin, from attending Lodge until the
September.
September 4th 1971 was the “Great Day” in the New Hall. On that
date the Lodge was able to resume its Meetings in the Hall - extended, rebuilt
and renovated throughout. The Meeting was the Mark Degree referred to. The
R.W.M. was able to attend, but not to undertake the strain of the Chair. A very
happy occasion was much enjoyed by all present. The R.W.M. was able to resume
his full duties in October. And, typically, as he had retired from his place of
work he now volunteered to act as Hallkeepcr. A Divine Service and a Dance took
place in the November. At the A.G.M. the Secretary's and Treasurer's reports
were read and accepted. The Brethren of the Lodge Elected Bro. N. Robb as
R.W.M. for 1972 - the Centenary year of the Lodge! Bro. Robb was Installed by P.M.s
Bros. Jas. Nicol and J. McLatchie. Bro. Robb, in a thoughtful gesture, took
Bro. A. Smillie, M.M., as his Depute Master. At the General Committee at the
end of the year the Centenary Committee, among others, was reformed. Its
Members in 1972 would be the R.W.M., I.P.M., D. MacDonald, Jas. Nicol, Jas.
Leggatt, A. Marshall, G. Glendinning, T Greig and I. Parkhill. P.M. Bro. D.
MacDonald was again declared Convenor of the Committee. The Committee asked and
received from the Lodge “carte-blanche” to organise the Lodge Centenary
Celebrations. Thus, with the Lodge back once more at ''Home'' and the Centenary
year awaiting, Bro. Carrick, in better health, was relieved of the duties of
R.W.M. and thus able to concentrate on the Hall, whilst Bro. N. Robb, R.W.M. assumed
these duties and prepared for the momentous days ahead.
1972
1972, the centenary year of the Lodage, had arrived. At the
Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East was Bro. R. Denholm P.G.M., and at
Grand Lodge in
And, at the height of it all, February to March, two active P.M.s,
members of both Bye-laws and Centenary Committees were detained in Hospital
with Heart Attacks. These were P.M as Bros. James Nicol and Bro. D. MacDonald.
Luckily absences were kept down to 6 weeks approximately, ending on March 13th.
The Centenary Celebrations Arrangements proceeded apace. The R.W.M.
and P.M. Bro. D. MacDonald, detailed by the Committee, met Mr. G. McNay the
E.K. Town Clerk. Al1 arrangements for the Lodges Centenary Meeting, the Grand
Masters Reception and the Dinner within the Civic Centre were finalised. Mr.
McNay confirmed that a Civic Reception would be given to the Grand Master, the
Provincial Grand Master and to Officers of the Lodge. The Lodge, in turn,
invited the Provost with 4 members of his Council to attend the Lodges
Celebrations as was practicable. The Provost, in the event, was represented by
Bailie T. Powell. The Lodge's list of invitations to the Centenary, in addition
to the Council Members stated, was: to Grand Lodge for all members of the
Deputation; to the P.G.M. and 7 members of Provincial Grand Lodge; to all
R.W.M.s in the Province of Renfrewshire East; to representatives of the
Hairmyres Curling Club and the East Kilbride Bowling Club both of whom had sent
Invitations to the Lodge to send a member to their Centenaries, taking place in
1972. The Programme for the Day had been long agreed. A Schedule of Timings
from 9.30 am to Midnight was issued to all persons remotely concerned. Catering
for the Dinner was in the capable hands of the
The Day dawned, and remained, bright dry and mild. Planned in 5
parts: New Masonic Hall Inspection by the G.M., Civic Reception to Lodge Office
Bearers and the G.M., The Centenary Meeting, The G.M.s informal “Get together”
and the Centenary Dinner and Harmony, the day called for an early start for
many Lodge members. At 11.30 a.m. the New Hall was Inspected by the P.G.M. and
the G.M. with some members of their eventual Deputation. At 12.15 p.m. the
Lodge Office Bearers with the P.G.M. Bro. R. Denholm and the M.W.G.M. Bro. D.L.
Granger and their Deputations - some 44 in all - were received by the Provost
of East Kilbride Mr. I. Smith and the Town Council. This took place in the
Council Chambers of the Town Council in the Civic Centre. Following the
Reception a cheerful lunch was enjoyed by all until 2.00 p.m. The R.W.M. Bro.
N. Robb presented the Town of
This ended the Celebration of the Lodges Centenary. Many
Congratulations had been received. Equally many were received, after the event,
for the considerable success of the Day. This was due to the generous effort
and concern of many persons - not all members of the Craft, far less the Lodge.
Within the Lodge credit was given to the Centenary Committee whose sustained
work, over some 2 years, was so well rewarded. The Centenary Ball took place in
the Ballerup Hall on 7th October and a great success this proved to be. Some
200 were present. The Guests were Bros. J. Thomson R.W.M. 1557, A. Crichton
P.M. 1557 and A. Brown Founder-R.W.M. Lodge Kilbryd No. 1667. On the 29th
November the Lodge entertained 100 Senior Citizens of the Town. Many old
friendships were renewed amongst the guests. The Divine Service of 1972 was
held at the
At their first Open Meeting, on 19th October, in the
...this concludes the
first one hundred years of Lodge St. Andrew 524.
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