SECTION IX
History of Masonry in England during the Reign of
King George II
The first Grand Lodge after the accession of George II, to
the throne was held at the Devil Tavern, Temple-bar, on the 24th
of June 1727; at which were present, the earl of Inchquin, Grand
Master, his officers, and the Masters and Wardens of forty lodges.
At this meeting it was resolved to extend the privilege of voting
in Grand Lodge to Past Grand Wardens[44]; that privilege having
been heretofore restricted to Past Grand Masters, by resolution
of 21st November 1724; and to Past Deputies, by another resolution
of 28th February 1726.
The Grand Master having been obliged to take a journey into
Ireland before the expiration of his office, his lordship transmitted
a letter to William Cowper Esq. his Deputy, requesting him to
convene a Grand Lodge for the purpose of nominating lord Colerane
Grand Master for the ensuing year. A Grand Lodge was accordingly
convened on the 19th of December 1727, when his lordship was regularly
proposed Grand Master elect, and being unanimously approved, on
the 27th of the same month was duly invested with the ensigns
of his high office at a grand feast at Mercers'-hall in the presence
of a numerous company of his brethren. His lordship attended two
communications during his mastership and seemed to pay considerable
attention to the duties of his office. He constituted several
new lodges and granted a deputation to hold a lodge in St Bernard's
Street in Madrid. At the last Grand Lodge under his lordship's
auspices, Dr Desaguliers moved, that the ancient office of Stewards
might be revived, to assist the Grand Wardens in preparing the
feast; when it was agreed that their appointment should be annual,
and the number restricted to twelve.
Lord Kingston succeed lord Colerane, and was invested with
the ensigns of his high office on the 27th of December 1728, at
a grand feast held a Mercer's-hall. his lordship's zeal and attachment
for the fraternity were very conspicuous, not only by his regular
attendance on the communications, but by his generous present
to the Grand Lodge, of a curious pedestal, a rich cushion with
gold knobs and fringes, a velvet bag, and a new jewel set in gold
for the use of the Secretary. during his lordship's administration,
the Society flourished at home and abroad. Many lodges were constituted
and among the rest, deputation was granted to George Pomfret Esq,
authorising him to open a new lodge at Bengal. This gentlemen
first introduced masonry into the English settlement in India,
where it has since made such rapid progress, that, with these
few years, upwards of fifty lodges, have been constituted there,
eleven of which are now held in Bengal. The annual remittances
to the charity and public funds of the Society from this and other
factories of the East India Company amount to a considerable sum.
At the Grand Lodge held a Devil Tavern on the 27th of December
1729, Natheniel Blackerby Esq, the Deputy Grand Master, being
in the chair, in the absence of lord Kingston, produced a letter
from his lordship, authorising him to propose the duke of Norfolk
Grand Master for the ensuing year. This nomination meeting with
general approbation, the usual compliments were paid to his grace,
and he was saluted Grand Master elect. At an assembly and feast
at Merchant-taylors'-hall on the 29th of January following his
grace was duly installed, according to ancient form, in the presence
of a numerous and brilliant company of masons. His grace's absence
in Italy soon after his election, prevented him from attending
more than one communication during his mastership; but the business
of the Society was diligently executed by Mr Blackerly his Deputy,
on whom the whole management had devolved. Among other signal
proofs of his grace's attachment to the Society, he transmitted
from Venice to England the following noble patents for the use
of the Grand Lodge:
1. Twenty pounds to the charity.
2. A Large folio book, of the finest writing paper, for the
records of Grand Lodge, richly bound in Turkey and gilt, with
a curious frontispiece in vellum, containing the arms of Norfolk,
amply displayed, and a Latin inscription of the family titles,
with the arms of masonry emblazoned.
3. A sword of state for the Grand Master, being the old trusty
sword of Gustavus Adolphus king of Sweden, which was next wore
by his brave successor in ware Bernard duke of Saxe-Weimar, with
both their names on the blade, and further enriched with the arms
of Norfolk in silver on the scabbard. For these presents his grace
was voted the public thanks of the Society.
It is not surprising that masonry should flourish under so
respectable a banner. His grace appointed a Provincial Grand Lodge
at New Jersey in America. A provincial patent was also made out
under his auspices for Bengal. From this period we may date the
commencement of the consequence and reputation of the Society
in Europe; as daily application were made for establishing new
lodges, and the most respectable character of the age desired
their names to be enrolled in our records.
The duke of Norfolk was succeeded by lord Lovel, afterwards
earl of Leicester, who was installed at Merchers'-hall on the
29th of March 1731. His lordship being at the time much indisposed
with an ague, was obliged to withdraw soon after his installation.
Lord Colerane, however, acted a proxy during the feast. On the
14th of May, the first Grand Lodge after lord Lovel's election
was held at the Rose Tavern in Mary-le-bone, when it was voted
that in future all past Grand MAsters and their deputies shall
be admitted members of the quarterly Committees of Charity, and
that eevry committee shall have power to vote five pounds for
the relief of any distressed mason; but no larger sum, without
the consent of the Grand Lodge in Communication being first had
and obtained. This resolution is still in force.
During the presidency of lord Lovel, the nobility made a point
of honouring the Grand Lodge with their presence. The dukes of
Norfolk and Richmond, the earl of Inchiquin, and lords Colrane
and Montagu, with several other persons of distinction, seldom
failed to give their attendance; and though the subscriptions
from the lodges were inconsiderable, the Society was enabled to
relieve many worthy objects with small sums. As an encouragement
to gentlemen to accept the office of steward, it was ordered that
in future each Steward should have the privilege of nominating
his successor at every annual grand feast. the most remarkable
event of lord Lovel's administration, was the initiation of Francis
duke of Lorraine, afterward emperor of Germany. by virtue of a
deputation from his lordship, a lodge was held at the Hague, where
his highness was received into the frist two degrees of masonry.
At this lodge, Phillip Stanhope earl of Chesterfield, then ambassador
there, presided; Mr Strickland, esq, acted as Deputy, and Mr Benjamin
Hadley with a Dutch brother as Wardens. His highness coming to
England in the same year, was advanced to the third degree at
an occasional lodge convened for the purpose at Houghton-hall
in Norfolk, the seat of sir Robert Walpole; as was also Thomas
Pelham, duke of Newcastle.
The Society being now in a very flourishing state, deputations
were granted from England, for establishing lodges in Russia and
Spain.
Lord Viscount Montagu was installed Grand Master at an assembly
and feast at Merchant-Taylors'-hall on the 19th April 1732. Among
the distinguished personages present on that Occasion were the
dukes of Montagu and Richmond; the earl of Strathmore; and lords
Colerane, Teynham and Carpetner; sir Francis Drake and sir William
Keith barts. and above four hundred other brethren. At this meeting
it was first proposed to have a country feast and agreed that
the brethren should dine together at Hampstead on the 24th June,
for the purpose cards of invitation were sent to several of the
nobility. On the day appointed, the Grand Master and his Officers,
the dukes of Norfolk and Richmond, earl of Strathmore, lord Carpenter
and Teynham, and above a hundred other brethren, met at the Spikes
at Hampstead, where an elegant dinner was provided. Soon after
the dinner, the Grand Master resigned the chair to Lord Teynham,
and from that time till the expiration of his office never attended
another meeting of the Society. His lordship granted a deputation
for constituting a lodge a Valenciennes in French Flanders, and
another for opening a new lodge at the Hotel de Buffy in Paris.
Several other lodges were also constituted under his lordship's
auspices; but the Society was particularly indebted to Thomas
Barton esq. the Deputy Grand Master, who was very attentive to
the duties of his office, and carefully superintended the government
of the craft.
The earl of Stratmore succeeded lord Montagu in the office
of Grand Master, and being in Scotland at the time, was installed
by proxy at an assembly at Mercers'-hall on the 7th of June 1733.
On the 13th December, a Grand Lodge was held at the devil tavern,
at which his lordship and his officers, the earl of Crawford,
sir Robert Mansel, a number of Past Grand Officers, and the Masters
and Wardens of fifty-three lodges were present. Several regulations
were confirmed at this meeting respecting the Committee of Charity;
and it was determined, that al complaints, in future to be brought
before the Grand Lodge, previously be examined by the Committee,
and from thence referred to the next Communication.
The history of the Society at this period afford no remarkable
incident to record. Some considerable donations were collected,
and distributed among distressed masons, to encourage the settlement
of a new colony which had been just established in Georgia in
'America. Lord Strathmore showed every attention to the duties
of his office, and regularly attended the meetings of Grand Lodge;
under his auspices the Society flourished at home and aboard,
and many genteel presents were received from the East Indies.
Elven German masons applied for authority to open a new lodge
in Hamburgh under the patronage of the Grand Lodge of England,
for which purpose his lordship was pleased to grant a deputation;
and soon after, several other lodges were constituted in Holland
under the English banner.
The earl of Strathmore was succeeded by the earl of Crawford,
who was installed at Mercers'-hall on the 30th March 1734. Public
affairs attracting his lordship's attention, the Communications
during his administation were neglected. After eleven months vacatioln,
however, a Grand Lodge was convened, at which his lordship attended
and apologized for his long absence. To atone for past omission,
he commanded two communcations to be held in little more than
six weeks. The dukes of Richmond and Buccleugh, the earl of Balcarras,
lord Weymouth, and other eminent persons, honoured the GRand Lodge
with their presence during the earl of Crawford's presidency.
The most remarkable proceedings of the Society at this period
related to a new edition of the Book of Consititutions, which
brother James Anderson was ordered to prepare for the press; and
which made its appearance in January 1738, considerably enlarged
and improved.
Among the new regulation which took place under the administration
of lord Crawford, was the following; That if any lodge with the
bills of mortality shall cease to meet during twelve calendar
months, the said lodge shall be erased out of the list, and if
re-instated, shall lose its former rank. Some additional privileges
were granted to the Stewards, in consequence of an application
for that purpose; and to encourage gentlemen to serve the office,
it was agreed, that in future all Grand Officers, the Grand Master
excepted, shall be elected out of that body. A few resolutions
also passed respecting illegal conventions of masons, at which
it was reported many persons had been initiated into masonry on
small and unworthy considerations.
The earl of Crawford seems to have made the first encroachment
on the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge in the city of York, by
constituting two lodges within their district; and by granting,
without their consent, three deputations, one for Lancashire,
a second for Durham, and a third for Northumberland. This circumstance
the Grand Lodge of York highly resented, and ever after viewed
the proceeding of the brethren in the metropolis with a jealous
eye. All friendly intercourse ceased, and the York masons from
that moment considered their interest distinct from the masons
under the Grand Lodge in London.[45]
Lord Weymouth succeed the earl of Crawford, and was installed
at Mercers'-hall on the 17th April 1735, in presence of the dukes
of Richmond and Athol; the earls of Crawford, Winchelsea, Balcarras,
Wemys and Loudon; the marquis of Beamont; lords Catheart and Vere
Bertie; sir Cecil Wray and sir Edward Mansel barts. and a splendid
company of other brethren. Several lodges were constituted during
lord Weymouth's presidency; and among the rest the Stewards' Lodges.
His lordship granted a deputation to hold a lodge at the seat
of the duke of Richmond at Aubigny in France; and, under his patronage
masonry extended considerably in foreign countries. He issued
warrants to open a new lodge at Lisbon, and another at Savannah
in Georgia; and, by his special appointment, provincial patents
were made out for South America, and Gambay in West Africa.
Lord Weymouth never honoured any of the Communications with
his presence during his presidency; but this amission was less
noticed on account of the vigilance and attention of his Deputy,
John Ward, esq. after lord viscount Dudley and Ward, who applied
with the utmost anxiety to every business which concerned the
interest and well-being of the Society.
One circumstance occurred while lord Weymouth was Grand Master;
of which it may be necessary to take notice. The twelve Stewards,
with sir Robert Lawley, Master of the Stewards' Lodge, at their
head, appeared for the first time in their new badges at a Grand
Lodge held at the Devil Tavern on the 11th of December 1735. On
this occasion they were not permitted to vote as individuals;
but it being afterwards proposed that they should enjoy this privilege,
and that the Stewards' Lodge should in future be represented in
Grand Lodge by twelve members, many lodges objected to the measure
as an encroachment on the privilege of every lodge which had been
previously constituted. When the motion was put up for confirmation,
such a disturbance ensued, that the Grand Lodge was obliged to
be closed before the sentiments of the brethren could be collected
on the subject. Of late years the punctilio has been waved, and
the twelve Stewards are now permitted to vote in every Communication
as individuals.[46]
The earl of Louden succeeded lord Weymouth, and was installed
Grand Master at Fishmongers'-hall on the 15th of April 1736. The
dukes of Richmond; the earls of Albermarle and Crawford, lords
Harcout Erksine and Southwell; Mr Anstis garter king at arms,
Mr Brady lion king of arms, and a numerous company of other brethren,
were present on the occasion. His lordship constituted several
lodges and granted three provincial deputation during his presidency,
viz, one for New England, another for South Carolina, and a third
for Cape Coast Castle in Africa.
The earl of Darnley was elected Grand Master, and duly installed
at Fishmonger's-hall on the 28th of April 1737, in presence of
the duke of Richmond, the earls of Crawford and Wemsys, lord Gray,
and many ohter respectable brethren. The most remarkable event
of the his lordship's administration, was the imitation of the
late Frederick prince of Wales, his present majesty's father,
at an occasional lodge convened for the purpose at the palace
of Kew, over which Dr Desaguliers presided as Master. Lord Baltimore,
col. Lumley, the hon. major Madden, and several other brethren,
were present. His royal highness was advanced to the second degree
at the same lodge; and at another lodge, convened at the same
place soon after, raised to the degree of a Master Mason.
There cannot be a better proof of the flourishing state of
the Society at this time, than by adverting to the respectable
appearence of the brethren in Grand Lodge, at which that Grand
Master never failed to attend. Upwards of sixty lodges were represented
at every Communication during Lord Darnley's administration, and
more Provincial patents were issued by him, than by any of his
predecessors. Deputations were granted for Montserrat, Geneva,
the Circle of Upper Saxony, the Coast of Africa, New York, and
the Islands of America.[47]
The marquis of Carnarvon, afterwards duke of Chanos, succeeded
lord Darnley in the office of Grand Master, and was duly invested
and congratulated at an assembly and feast hled at Fishmonger's-hall
on the 27th of April 1738. At this assembly, the duke of Richmond;
the earls of Inchiquin, Loudon and Kintore; lords Colerane and
Gray; and a numerous company of other brethren, were present.
The marquis showed every attention to the Society during his
presidency, and in testimony of his esteem, presented to the Grand
Lodge a gold jewel for the use of the Secretary; the device, two
cross pens in a knot; the knot and points of the pens being curiously
enameled. Two deputations for the office Provincial Grand Master
were granted by his lordship; one for the Caribbee Islands and
the other for the West Riding of Yorkshire. This latter appointment
was considered as another encroachment on the jurisdiction of
the Grand Lodge of York, and so widened the original breach between
the brethren in the North and the South of England, that from
thenceforward all future correspondence between the Grand Lodges
totally ceased.
On the 15th of August 1738, Frederick the Great. afterwards
king of Prussia, was initiated into masonry, in a lodge in Brunswick,
under the Scots constitution, being at that time Prince Royal.
So highly did he approve of the initiation, that, on his accession
to the throne, he commanded a Grand Lodge to be formed at Berlin,
and for that purpose obtained a patent from Edinburgh. Thus was
masonry regularly established in Prussia, and under that sanction
it has flourished there ever since. His majesty's attachment to
the Society soon induced him to establish several new regulations
for the advantage of the fraternity; and among others he ordained,
1. That no person should be made a mason, unless his character
was unimpeachable and his manner of living and profession respectable.
2. That every member should pay 25 rix-dollars (or £4.
3s 0d) for the first degree; 50 rix-dollars (or £8. 6s.
0d) on his being initiated into the second degree; and 100 rix-dollars
(or £16. 12s. 0d) on his being made a master-mason.
3. That he should remain at least three months in each degree;
and that every sun received should be divided by the Grand Treasurer
into three parts: one to defray the expenses of the lodge; another
to be applied to the relief of distressed brethren; and the third
to be allotted to the poor in general.
No other remarkable occurrence is recorded to have happened
during the administration of the marquis of Carnarvon, except
a proposition for establishing a plan to appropriate a portion
of the charity to place out the sons of masons apprentices, which,
after a long debate in Grand Lodge, was rejected.[48]
Some disagreeable altercations arose in the Society about
this period. A number of dissatisfied brethren separated themselves
from the regular lodges, and held meetings in different places
for the purpose of initiating persons into masonry, contrary to
the laws of the Grand Lodge. These seceding brethren taking advantage
of the breach which had been made in the friendly intercourse
between the Grand Lodges of London and York, on being censured
for their conduct, immediately assumed, without authority, the
character of York masons. The measures adopted to check them stopped
their progress for some time; till, taking advantage of the general
murmur spread abroad on account of innovations that had been introduced,
and which seemed to authorize an omission of, and a variation
in the ancient ceremonies, they rose again into notice. This imprudent
measure of the regular lodges offended many old masons; but, through
the mediation of John Ward esq. afterwards lord viscount Dudley
and Ward, matters were accommodated, and the brethren seemingly
reconciled. This, however, proved only a temporary suspension
of hostilities, for the same soon broke out anew, and gave rise
to commotions, which afterward materially interrupted the peace
of the Society.
Lord Raymond succeeded the marquis of Carnarvon in May 1739,
and under his lordship's auspices the lodges were numerous and
respectable. Notwithstanding the flourishing state of the Society,
irregularities continued to prevail, and several worthy brethren,
still adverse to the encroachments on the established system of
the institution, were highly disgusted at the proceeding of the
regular lodges. Complaints were preferred at every succeeding
committee, and the communications fully employed in adjusting
differences and reconciling animosities. More sessions taking
place, it became necessary to pass votes of censure on the mist
refractory and to enact laws to discourage irregular associations
of the fraternity. this brought the power of the Grand Lodge in
question; and in opposition to the laws which had been established
in that assembly, lodges were formed with any legal warrant, and
persons initiated into masonry for small and unworthy considerations.
To disappoint the views of these deluded brethren, and to distinguish
the persons initiated by them the Grand Lodge readily acquiesced
in the imprudent measures which the regular masons had adopted,
measures which even the urgency of the case could not warrant.
Though this had the intended effect effect, it gave rise to a
new subterfuge. The brethren who had seceded from the regular
lodges immediately announced independency, and assumed the appellation
of ancient masons. They propagated an opinion, that the ancient
tenets and practices of masonry were preserved by them; and that
the regular lodges, being composed of modern masons, had adopted
new plans, and were not to be considered as acting under the old
establishment. To counteract the regulations of the Grand Lodge,
they instituted a new Grand Lodge in London, professedly on the
ancient system, and under that assumed banner constituted several
new lodges. There irregular proceeding they pretended to justify
under feigned sanction of the Ancient York Constitution, and many
gentlemen of reputation were introduced among them, so that their
lodges daily increased. Without authority for the Grand Lodge
of York, or form any other established power of masonry, ther
persevered in the measures they had adopted, formed committees,
held communications, and appointed annual feasts. Under the false
appellation of the York banner, they gained the countenance of
the Scotch and Irish masons, who, placing implicit confidence
in the representations made to them, heartily joined in condemning
the measures of the regular lodges in London, as tending, in their
opinion, to introduce novelties into the Society, and to subvert
the original plan of the institution. The irregular masons in
London, having acquired an establishment, noblemen of both kingdoms
honoured them with their patronage for some time, and many respectable
names and lodges were added to this list. Of late years the fallacy
has been detected, and they have not been so successful; several
of their best members have renounced their banner and come under
the patronage of the Grand Lodge of England. It is much to be
wished, in that a general union among all the masons in the kingdom
could effected, and we are happy to hear that such a measure is
likely soon to accomplished, through the mediation of a Royal
Brother at present abroad.
During the presidency of lord Raymond, no considerable addition
was made to the list of lodges and communications were seldom
honoured with the company of the nobility. His lordship granted
only one deputation for a provincial Grand Master during his presidency,
viz: for Savoy and Piedmont.
The earl of Kintore succeeded Lord Raymond in April 1740 and,
in imitation of his predecessor, continued to discourage irregularities.
His lordship appointed several provincials: particularly, one
for Russia; one for Hamburgh and the the Circle of Lower Saxony;
one for the West Riding of York, in the room of William Horton
esq. deceased; and one for the island of Barbadoes.
The earl of Morton was elected on the 19th of March following,
and installed with great solemnity the same day at Haberdashers'-hall,
in preference of a respectable company of the nobility, foreign
ambassadors, and others. Several seasonable laws were passed during
this lordship's mastership, and some regulations made concerning
procession and other ceremonies. His lordship presented a staff
of office to the Treasurer, of neat workmanship, blue and tip't
with gold; and the Grand Lodge resolved, that this officer should
be annually elected, and, with the Secretary and Sword-beaker,
be permitted to rank in future as a member of Grand Lodge. A large
cornelian seal, with the arms of masonry, set in gold, was presented
to the Society, at this time, by brother Vaughan, the Senior Grand
Warden; and William Vaughan esq. was appointed by his lordship,
Provincial Grand Master for North Wales.
Lord Ward succeeded the earl of Morton in April 1742. His
lordship was well acquainted with the nature and government of
the Society having served every office from the Secretary in a
private lodge to that of Grand Master. His lordship lost no time
in applying effectual remedies to reconcile the animosities which
prevailed; he recommended to his officers, vigilance and care
in their different departments; and by the his own conduct, set
a noble example how the dignity of the Society ought to be supported.
Many lodges, which were in a declining state, by his advice, coalesced
with other in better circumstances; some, which had been negligent
in their attendance on the Communications, after proper admonitions
were restored to favor; and others, which persevered in their
contumacy, were erased out of the list. Thus his lordship manifested
his regard for the interests of the Society, while his lenity
and forbearance were universally admired.
The unanimity and harmony of the lodges seemed to be perfectly
restored under his lordship's administration. The free-masons
at Antigua built a large hall in that island for their meetings,
and applied to the Grand Lodge for liberty to be styled the Great
Lodge of St John's in Antigua, which favor was granted to them
in April 1744.
Lord Ward continued two years at the head of the fraternity,
during which time he constituted, many lodges, and appointed several
Provincial Grand Masters; viz. one for Lancaster, one for North
America, and three for the island of Jamaica. he was succeeded
by the earl of Strathmore, during whose administration, being
absent the whole time, the care and management of the Society
devolved on the other Grand Officers, who carefully studied the
general good of the fraternity. His lordship appointed a Provincial
Grand Master for the island of Bermuda.
Lord Cranstoun was elected Grand Master in April 1745, and
presided over the fraternity with great reputation two years under
his auspices masonry flourished, several new lodges were constituted,
and one Provincial Grand Master was appointed for Cape Breton
and Louisburg. By a resolution of the Grand Lodge at this time
it was order, that public procession on feast-days should be discontinued;
occasioned by some mock processions, which a few disgusted brethren
had formed, in order to burlesque those public appearances.
Lord Byron succeeded lord Cranstoun, and was installed at
Drapers'-hall on the 30th of April 1747. The laws of the Committee
of Charity were, by his lordship's order, revised, printed, and
distributed among lodges, and a handsome, contribution to the
general charity was received from the lodge at Gibraltar. During
five years that is lordship presided over the fraternity, no diligence
was spared to preserve the privileges of masonry inviolate, to
redress grievances, and to relieve distress. When business required
his lordship's attendance in country, Fotherly Baker esq. his
Deputy and Secretary Revis, were particularly attentive to the
business of the Society. The former was distinguished by his knowledge
of the laws and regulations; the latter, by his long and faithful
services, under the auspices of lord Byron, provincial patents
were issued for Denmark amd Norway, Pennsylvania, Minorca, and
New York.
On the 20th March, 1752, lord Carysfort accepted the office
of Grand Master. The good effects of his lordship's application
to the real interests of the fraternity soon became visible, by
the great increase of the public fund. No Grand Officer ever took
more pains to preserve, or was more attentive to recommend, order
and decorum. He was ready, on all occasions, to visit the lodges
in person, and to promote harmony among the members. Dr. Manningham,
his Deputy, was no less vigilant in the execution of his duty.
He constantly visited the lodges in his lordship's absence, and
used every endeavor to cement union among the brethren. The whole
proceedings of this active officer were conducted with prudence,
and his candor and affability gained him universal esteem. The
Grand Master's attachment to the Society was so obvious, that
the brethren, in testimony of their gratitude for his lordship's
great services, re-elected him on the 3d of April 1753; and during
his presidency, provincial patents were issued for Gibraltar,
the Bahama Islands, New York, Guernsey, Jersey, Alderney, Sark,
and Mann; also for Cornwall, and the counties of Worcester, Gloucester,
Salop, Monmouth, and Hereford.
At this time the Society in Scotland appears to have been
in a flourishing state. Under the auspices of George Drummond
esq., the Grand Master of the Masons in that kingdom, the lodges
had considerably increased in numbers. This gentleman had thrice
served the office of Lord Provost of Edinburgh, and being at the
head of the senate in that city, he was anxious to promote every
scheme which could add to the consequence and splendour of the
metropolis of his native country. With this view he planned, and
afterwards completed, that elegant range of buildings called THE
NEW EXCHANGE OF EDINBURGH, the foundation-stone of which he laid
on the 13th of September 1753, as Grand Master. An event so remarkable
in the annals of Masonry justly merits attention, and cannot fail
to render an account of a ceremony so splendid, and conducted
with so much regularity, interesting to every brother who has
the honour of the Society at heart.
Early in the morning of the day appointed for the celebration
of this ceremony, a magnificent trium phal arch, in the true Augustan
style, was opened to public view; it was erected at the entrance
leading towards the place where the foundation-stone of the intended
building was to be laid. In the niches between the columns on
each side of the entrance were two figures, representing GEOMETRY
and ARCHITECTURE, each as large as life. On the frieze of the
entablature, which was of the Corinthian order, were the following
words: QUOD FELIX FAUSTUMQUE SIT; That it may be happy and prosperous.
On the middle panel of the attic base, placed over the entablature,
was represented the GENIUS of EDINBURGH, in a curule chair, under
a canopy; on her right hand stood a group of figures representing
the lord provost, magistrates, and council, in their robes; on
her left was another group representing the noblemen and gentlemen
employed in the direction of the intended structure. In front
was placed the Grand Master, offering a plan of the Exchange,
attended by several of his brethren properly clothed. The whole
was decorated with laurels, bays, and other evergreens, interspersed
with festoons of flowers.
At three o'clock in the afternoon, the several lodges, with
their Masters at their head, met at Mary's Chapel, in Niddry's
Wind; and at half past three moved in procession from the chapel,
the city guard covering the rear:
1. Operative Masons not belonging to any lodge present.
2. A band of French horns.
3. The lodges present arranged as follows:
The military Lodge belonging to General Johnson's regiment.
The Thistle Lodge
The Scots Lodge in Canongate
Holyrood house Lodge
Vernon Kilwinning Lodge
Canongate from Leith Lodge
Dalkeith Lodge
Lodge of Journeymen Masons
Canongate and Leith, Leith and Canongate Lodge
Leith Kilwinning Lodge
Canongate Kilwinning Lodge
Mary's Chapel Lodge
All the brethren properly clothed, and the Masters and Wardens
in the jewels of their respective lodges, with their badges of
dignity, formed the left rank of each lodge.
4. Gentlemen Masons belonging to foreign lodges.
5. A band of Hautbois.
6 The Golden Compasses, carried by an operative Mason.
7. Three Grand Stewards, with rods.
8. The Grand Secretary, Grand Treasurer, and Grand Clerk.
9. Three Grand Stewards, with rods.
10. The Golden Square, Level, and Plumb, carried by three operative
Masons.
11. A band of French horns.
12. Three Grand Stewards, with rods.
13. The Grand wardens.
14. The Cornucopia, and Golden Mallet, carried by an officer of
the Grand Lodge, and an operative Mason.
15. The GRAND MASTER, supported by a Past Grand Master, and the
present Substitute.
The procession was closed with a body of operative Masons;
and the whole brethren, amounting exactly to 672, walked uncovered.
At the head of Niddry's Wind the cavalcade was received by
150 of the military and a company of grenadiers, drawn up in two
lines, under arms, who escorted the procession; one half of the
grena diers marching in front and the other half in the rear,
with bayonets fixed. As the procession passed the city guard,
a company was drawn out, with the proper officers at their head,
who saluted the Grand Master with military honours, drums beating
and music playing. When the procession reached the Parliament
Close, the troops formed a line, as did also the Masons within
that line. The Grand Master and the Officers of the Grand Lodge
then made a stop at the north-west corner of the close, and despatched
a message to the Council House, to acquaint the magistrates that
the brethren were ready to receive them; on which the lord provost,
magistrates, and council, in their robes, preceded by the city
officers, with the sword and mace, accompanied by several of the
gentlemen in the direction of the intended buildings, proceeded
through the lines formed by the soldiers and the Masons; when
the Grand Master, properly supported as before, preceded by his
officers, and having his jewels borne before him, marched to the
place where the ceremony was to be performed, and passed through
the triumphal arch erected for the occasion, the lodges following
according to seniority. On the west side of the place where the
stone was to be laid was erected a theatre, covered with tapestry
and decked with flowers, for the lord provost, magistrates, council,
and attendants; on the east was erected another theatre for the
Grand Master and his officers, on which was set a chair for the
Grand Master. Before the chair was a table covered with tapestry,
on which were placed two silver vessels, filled with wine and
oil; the golden jewels; and the cornucopia, which had been carried
in the procession. The Masters, Wardens, and brethren of the several
lodges were then arranged in galleries properly fitted up for
the occasion.
The ceremony of laying the stone now commenced. By order of
the Substitute Grand Master, the stone was flung in a tackle,
and, after three regular stops, let down gradually to the ground,
during which the Masonic anthem was sung, accompanied by the music,
all the brethren joining in the chorus. The Grand Master, supported
as before, preceded by his officers, and the operative Masons
carrying the jewels, then descended from the theatre to the spot
where the stone lay, and passed through a line formed by the officers
of the Grand Lodge. The Substitute Grand Master deposited in the
stone, in cavities made for the purpose, three medals with the
following devices: On one side, was the effigies of the Grand
Master in profile, vested with the ribbon officially worn by him;
and in front, a view of the Royal Infirmary, with the following
inscription:
G. DRUMMOND, ARCHITECT. SCOT.
SVMMVS MAGIS EDIN. TER COS.
GEORGE DRUMMOND, of the Society of Free Masons in Scotland,
Grand Master, thrice Provost of Edinburgh. On the reverse was
a perspective view of the Exchange, on which was inscribed in
the circle. VRBI EXORNANDÆ CIVIVMQUE COMMODITATI, for adorning
the City, and the conveniency of its Inhabitants; and underneath,
FORI NOVI EDINBVRGENSIS
POSITO LAPIDE PRIMO
ORDO PER SCOTIAM ARCHITECTONICUS
EXCUDI JUSSIT,
XIII SEPTEMBRIS 1753.
The first stone of the New Exchange of Edinburgh being laid,
the brotherhood of Masons through Scotland ordered this to be
struck, 13th September 1753.
The other medals contained the effigies as above, and on the
reverse the Masons' Arms, inclosed within the collar of St. Andrew,
with the following inscription:
IN THE LORD IS ALL OUR TRUST.
The former Grand Master and the Substitute retiring, two operative
Masons came in their place, and assisted the Grand Master to turn
over the stone, and lay it in its proper bed, with the inscription[49]
undermost. The Grand Master then taking his station at the east
of the stone, with the Substitute on the left, and his Wardens
in the west, the operative who carried the square delivered it
to the Substitute, who presented it to the Grand Master; and he
having applied it to that part of the stone which was square,
returned it back to the operative. The operative who carried the
plumb then delivered it to the Substitute, who presented it also
to the Grand Master, and he having applied it to the edges of
the stone, holding it upright, delivered it back to the operative.
In like manner the operative, who carried the level, delivered
it to the Substitute, and he presented it to the Grand Master,
who applied it above the stone in several positions, and returned
it back to the operative. The mallet was then presented to the
Grand Master, who gave three knocks upon the stone, which was
followed by three huzzas from the brethren. An anthem was then
sung, accompanied by the music; during which the cornucopia and
the two silver vessels containing the wine and oil were brought
down to the stone. The cornucopia was delivered to the Substitute,
and the vessels to the Wardens. The anthem being concluded, the
Substitute presented the cornucopia to the Grand Master, who turned
out the ears of corn upon the stone. The silver vessels were then
delivered by the Wardens to the Substitute, and by him presented
to the Grand Master, who poured the contents upon the stone, saying,
'May the bountiful hand of Heaven supply this city with abundance
of corn, wine, oil and all the other conveniences of life!' This
was succeeded by three huzzas, after which an anthem was sung.
The Grand Master then repeated these words: 'As we have now laid
this foundation-stone, may the Grand Architect of the universe,
of his kind providence, enable us to carry on and finish the work
which we have now begun; may he be a guard to this place, and
the city in general; and may he preserve it from decay and ruin
to the latest posterity.' The ceremony was concluded with a short
prayer for the sovereign, the senate of the city, the Fraternity
of Masons, and all the people; the music was resumed, and the
Grand Master returned to his chair, amid the plaudits of the brethren.
The Grand Master then addressed the lord provost, magistrates,
and council, in an appropriate speech; in which he thanked them
for the honour which they had done him in witnessing the act of
laying the foundation-stone of the intended structure, and expressed
his earnest wish that they and their successors might be happy
instruments to forward the great and good work which was now begun,
and offered so fair a prospect of success; and he sincerely hoped
that it might add, not only to the ornament and advantage of the
city of Edinburgh, but be the means of ensuring to them lasting
honour, and transmitting their memories to the latest posterity.
He next addressed the undertakers of the work on the importance
of the trust reposed in them, and recommended diligence and industry
to all the workmen who might be employed under them.
The magistrates then took their leave, and the brethren resumed
the procession to the palace of Holy rood House, escorted by the
military as before, amidst an immense crowd of spectators. On
arriving at the palace, the Grand Master, in the name of himself
and his brethren, returned his most grateful acknowledgments to
the commanding officer of the troops for the assistance which
he had given. The brethren then entered the inner court of the
palace, and formed a square, to receive the Grand Master and his
officers with all due honour; who, followed by the lodges according
to seniority, proceeded to the great gallery, where an elegant
entertainment was provided, and the greatest harmony prevailed.
At nine o'clock in the evening the company broke up.
Such was the regularity observed throughout the ceremony of
the day, that, notwithstanding the crowds of people who were collected
on the occasion, the whole was concluded without a single accident.
The marquis of Carnarvon (afterwards duke of Chandos) succeeded
lord Carysfort in the office of Grand Master of England, in March,
1754. He began his administration by ordering the Book of Constitutions
to be reprinted, under the inspection of a committee, consisting
of the Grand Officers, and some other respectable brethren. The
Grand Master's zeal and attention to the true interests of the
Society were shown on every occasion. He presented to the Grand
Lodge a large silver jewel, gilt, for the use of the Treasurer,
being cross keys in a knot, enamelled with blue; and gave several
other proofs of his attachment.
Soon after the election of the marquis of Carnarvon, the Grand
Lodge took into consideration a complaint against certain brethren,
for assembling, without any legal authority, under the denomination
of ancient masons; and who, as such, considered themselves independent
of the Society, and not subject to the laws of the Grand Lodge,
or to the control of the Grand Master. Dr. Manningham, the Deputy
Grand Master, pointed out the necessity of discouraging such meetings,
as being contrary to the laws of the Society, and openly subversive
of the allegiance due to the Grand Master. On this representation,
the Grand Lodge resolved that the meeting of any brethren under
the denomination of Masons, other than as brethren of the ancient
and honourable Society of Free and Accepted Masons, established
upon the universal system, is inconsistent with the honour and
interest of the Craft, and a high insult on the Grand Master and
the whole body of Masons. In consequence of this resolution, fourteen
brethren, who were members of a Lodge held at the Ben Johnson's
head, in Pelham-street, Spitalfields, were expelled the Society,
and that lodge was ordered to be erased from the list.
No preceding Grand Master granted so many provincial deputations
as the marquis of Carnarvon. On the 7th of October 1755, his lordship
appointed a Provincial Grand Master for Durham, and soon after
a very respectable Lodge was constituted at Sunderland under his
lordship's auspices. In less than two years the following patents
were issued by his lordship;
1. for South Carolina;
2. for South Wales;
3. for Antigua;
4. for all North America where no former Provincial was appointed;
5. for Barbadoes, and all other his majesty's islands to the windward
of Guadaloupe;
6. for St. Eustatius, Cuba, and St. Martin's, Dutch Caribbee islands
in America;
7. for Sicily, and the adjacent islands;
8. for all his majesty's dominions in Germany, with the power
to choose their successors; and
9. for the county palatine of Chester and the city and county
of Chester.
The greater part of these appointments appear to have been
mere honorary grants in favor of individuals, few of them having
been attended with any real advantage to the Society.
The marquis of Carnarvon continued to preside over the Fraternity
till the 18th of May 1757, when he was succeeded by Lord Aberdour,
during whose mastership the Grand Lodge voted, among other charities,
the sum of fifty pounds to be sent to Germany, to be distributed
among such of the soldiers as were Masons in Prince Ferdinand's
army, whether English, Hanoverians, or Hessians; and this sum
was soon after remitted to General Kingsley for the intended purpose.
These were the principal proceedings of the Fraternity during
the reign of George II, who, on the 5th of October 1760, expired
at his palace at Ken sington, in the 77th year of his age, and
the 34th of his reign.
This period seems to have been the golden æra of Masonry
in England; the sciences were cultivated and improved, the royal
art was diligently propagated, and true architecture clearly understood;
the Fraternity were honoured and esteemed; the lodges patronized
by exalted characters; and charity, humanity, and benevolence
appeared to be the distinguishing characteristics of Masons.
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