The Ambassadors Team attended the Hampsted Big Fair on Sunday July 7th which took place at Heath Street, Hampstead.
At first glance one might consider this a foray into Metropolitan Territory. However, the history buffs will know that until 1889 Hampstead was firmly in the domain of Middlesex being in the Ossulton Hundred but succumbed to the control of the new London County Council. Hampstead has, indeed, a masonic heritage even though no Lodges appear to have become part of the Middlesex Masonic Province. There is a record of a St John’s Lodge No 167 which had been consecrated in 1767 which met at the King’s Head, Hampstead. Over a long number of years, the Lodge met at various meeting places in the Hampstead area and now has its home at Freemasons’ Hall. Other Lodges also were part of the Hampstead Masonic scene with Hampstead Lodge No 2408, Belsize Lodge No 5280 and Loyal Heath Lodge No 4716, the latter meeting at Southgate. This is refreshing to know that although the Ambassadors team are introducing freemasonry to Hampstead, it seems that there is already a masonic history of freemasonry stretching back in time.
The Hampstead Team
The Two volunteers who attended at Hampstead were Guy Dunk and Keith Gregory who braved the showers on the day. They both arrived early at 9.30 am to set up stall, Guy having collected the gazebo. The formal opening was at 11.00 am. Fortunately, they both remembered to bring their waterproof gear and umbrellas sure proof of an English summer.
Because of the inclement weather the turn out of visitors was less than might have been expected. Nevertheless, there were still many enquiries and expressions of interests with masonic pamphlets being taken away. Refreshingly there were a number of ladies who asked questions about women’s freemasonry also taking their share of information leaflets.
Guy and Keith packed away the stand at 5.00pm and dried themselves out. Despite the awful weather it transpired that a good day was had by both members of the Ambassador’s Team who were delighted to present freemasonry to members of the public.
Keith Gregory said he is always looking for Middlesex Masons to be part of the Exhibition Team. The Team aims to raise awareness of Freemasonry and assist those who express interest in joining the Province. Anyone wishing to know more about joining the Team of Volunteers should contact Keith Gregory by email keithgregory100@yahhoo.co.uk leaving your details so he might contact you for an informal chat at a mutually convenient time.
