On 5th November 1874, the Francis Burdett Lodge No. 1503 was consecrated, establishing it as one of the earliest Masonic lodges in the newly formed Province of Middlesex.
Named after Colonel Francis Burdett, the first Grand Master of the Province, the Lodge honours a man of notable legacy. Colonel Burdett, who later succeeded his cousin as the 7th Baronet of Bramcote, became Sir Francis Burdett in 1880, a title that added further prestige to his name and to the lodge. Sir Francis was renowned not only for his military career but also for his enduring dedication to the fraternity.
Since its founding, Sir Francis Burdett Lodge has been a pillar in Middlesex Masonry, consistently upholding the principles of Brotherhood, charity, and service to the community. This legacy was beautifully honoured on Tuesday, 5th November 2024, when the Lodge celebrated its 150th anniversary. The sesquicentennial gathering was both a proud reflection on a storied past and an inspiring look towards the future of the Lodge.
This milestone event drew in distinguished guests and brethren from across the Province and beyond. The Deputy Provincial Grand Master, VW Bro Jim Mitchell, PGSwdB, was in attendance, accompanied by W Bro George Fraser, PProvDepGDC, who, with supporting officers, provided an escort fitting for the occasion.
Their presence emphasised the importance of this anniversary in the wider Masonic community.
Adding to the honour of the day was RW Bro David Kenneth Williamson, PAGM, an honorary member of Francis Burdett Lodge. RW Bro Williamson holds a particularly special place in the history of the Lodge, having been an active member until his appointment as Assistant Grand Master. His return to celebrate this significant anniversary brought warmth, inspiration and a sense of continuity that resonated deeply with everyone present. His contributions over the years, both to the Lodge and to Freemasonry in general, remind us of the dedication and commitment that define Masonic values.
The evening’s programme, which included the Passing of Bro Ravinder Sharma, one of the Lodge’s recent initiates, reflected on the history of the Lodge and the lasting influence of Sir Francis Burdett’s example. From the Lodge’s humble beginnings to its role as a cornerstone of Middlesex Masonry, members old and new shared their experiences and memories, bridging generations of Masons who have walked through its doors. The speeches, anecdotes and ceremonial aspects of the evening not only celebrated the past but looked ahead, reminding all present of the importance of continuing the Lodge’s mission of fellowship, charity, and self-improvement.
At the Festive Board, W Bro Jeremy Davies gave a short history of the Lodge and noted that probably only Bro Edward Drake-Peacock, the Lodge’s latest initiate at the age of 18, would be around to celebrate the Lodge’s bicentenary in 2074. Bro Drake-Peacock carried the Lodge’s banner with pride at the recent annual Thanksgiving Service at St. Albans.
For Sir Francis Burdett Lodge No. 1503, this anniversary is more than just a milestone—it’s a testament to a vibrant, living tradition that endures. Lodges like these are not simply names on a registry; they are communities, built on mutual respect, trust and the shared commitment to Masonic values. The 150th celebration is a powerful reminder of the Lodge’s rich heritage and the contributions of so many members who have upheld its legacy.
As the Lodge enters its next century, it does so with both pride and purpose. The 150th anniversary marks a new chapter, one filled with the promise of growth, unity and the continued impact of Middlesex Masonry.
Here’s to the next 150 years of Brotherhood, to honouring our forebears and to inspiring future generations to live up to the ideals that Sir Francis Burdett Lodge No. 1503 so proudly embodies.
Bro Edward Drake-Peacock carrying the lodge banner at the
Recent Service of Thanksgiving, St Albans Cathedral.
