The sands of time are still running.
Burdett Chapter No 1293 was consecrated on 29th November 1873 and celebrated its sesquicentenary in great style in December 2023 at the Twickenham District Masonic Centre. Burdett was one of the very earliest Chapters consecrated in the then new Province of Middlesex and named in honour of Col. Sir Francis Burdett, the first Provincial Grand Superintendent
On this very special occasion the Chapter was delighted to welcome the Deputy Grand Superintendent, E Comp John Eynon PGSwdB, and his Provincial escort, as well as many other guests. E Comp John delivered a fascinating and very well received address highlighting events in the history of the Chapter and in the world in general over the last 150 years.
To mark the event the Chapter was pleased to announce six charitable donations totalling £1,950. This included funds for three of those made available to mark the auspicious event by E Comp Peter Gledhill on behalf of the Middlesex Masonic Charity. The Chapter is very grateful to the MMC for this.
The Companions were then treated to an excellent and well-illustrated talk entitled ‘Freemasons Go to the Movies’. It was prepared and presented by our Provincial Grand Orator, E Comp Andrew Farleigh, in his usual entertaining style, after which the Companions enjoyed the celebratory festive board with each receiving a brief chronicle of the history of this special Chapter.
As with so many Chapters, Burdett has had its ups and downs over the years and current membership is very low and well down on a peak of 50 members in its early years. A slow but steady revival is underway, including an Exaltation in March, but more members are urgently needed. Please consider joining this historic Chapter where you are assured of a warm, friendly welcome and great Companionship.
Ed: A grateful thanks to E. Comp Howard Hughes, 3rd Provincial Grand Principal for this report.
