The Lodge of Dawn 6511 and our annual masonic tour Report by Brother Eóin Byrne.
Every Entered Apprentice knows that freemasonry is “universally spread” over the globe and this was once again typified by The Lodge of Dawn’s now annual masonic trip. W Bro Rob Philips’ expeditions are fast becoming the stuff of legends in certain circles and this year would be no different when 24 Worshipful brethren and brethren arrived in St Helier on an unseasonably bright and warm Wednesday afternoon to learn about the history and freemasonry of Jersey.
That afternoon as we settled into our new environs we were treated to a walking tour of St Helier with an in depth retelling of The Battle of Jersey where a young Yorkshireman – Major Francis Peirson – played a pivotal role in one of the few non-continental battles in the American War of Independence.
The following morning we departed on a brilliantly curated tour of the island and were treated to 6,000 years of Jersey’s history from Iron Age portal tombs and medieval castles, to nazi occupation and the recovery thereafter. One of the most memorable locations was a former World War 2 bunker which was still full of nazi documents, medals, and weapons of war.
At 6pm sharp, we arrived at the Masonic Hall on Stopford Road and were greeted heartily by the Worshipful Brethren and Brethren of The Duke of Normandy Lodge No. 245. The Lodge was opened in due and ancient form and after some initial business was conducted, the visitors entered under the instruction of Bro. Director of Ceremonies. Our visit was also fortunate enough to coincide with a visit of the Provincial Grand Master of Jersey – RW Br Tim Dallas-Chapman – which made the evening even more special. We had the pleasure of watching the Passing of a brother and were witness to their unique and fascinating Atholl ritual. This was concluded with a fantastic explanation of the second degree tracing board which was given by W Bro P. B. Le Seuer who is not only Provincial Junior Grand Warden and Connétable de la Trinité (Mayor of one of the island’s parishes) but is also the father of the Worshipful Master.
After all business was attended to and the lodge was closed we made our way to the dining hall where festivities continued with great company, a delicious meal, and free flowing conversation. That being said, I’m not sure we’ll be invited back as our group won about 70% of the raffle prizes with brethren taking home everything from a Ninja Blender to 3 packets of Mentos.
The following morning W Bro Geoff Morris took us on a tour of the lodge building and the adjoining museum where we had the honour of seeing 21,000 pieces of masonic history, One item that was of particular significance was an original copy of the 1723 Constitution which had been taken by the nazis and was recovered after the war.
A massive thanks must be given to W Bro Philips for coordinating this trip and to the Worshipful brethren and brethren of the Duke of Normandy Lodge No. 245 for welcoming us into their lodge, for their hospitality, and for sharing their history and present with us.
If you are not a Freemason and, having read the above, would like to find out more, read our Seven Reason to Join The Freemasons, our guide on ‘How to join The Freemasons‘ or our simple ‘What is Freemasonry?’ page.
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