LODGE LOCH FYNE NO 754

This year marks an epoch in the affairs of the Lodge Loch Fyne.

Constituted in March 1888, and consecrated in August 1888, it pursued an unbroken course through the vicissitudes of 3 wars and honoured Loyal Toasts in 6 Reigns, this, the one hundredth year of its existence, finds the Lodge Loch Fyne pre-eminent in its sphere in Scottish Freemasonry in Argyll and the Isles, with an ancient and honourable lineage.

Unfortunately, however rich its traditions, there is but scant detail available in the Lodge's earlier records, as often half or three quarters of a page, sufficed to record the events of a particular meeting.

A diligent search of these, however, has enabled the compilation of a history which it is now opportune to present to you.

Towards the end of the year 1887, a number of Freemasons in the Argyll
Area met for the purpose of the formation of a Lodge in Lochgilphead. After many
discussions a petition for a Charter was prepared and presented to the Grand
Lodge in Edinburgh on 2 February 1888.
The Petitioners were: Henry C H Allenby
John Robertson

Robert Alexander All members of Lodge Inveraray St John No 50.

David Stevenson, Donald Dewar

Members of Lodge Rothesay St John No 292.

James Fraser of Lodge St John Campbeltown No 141. John M MacKechnie of the Glasgow Star Lodge No 219.

and proposing the following office bearers for the new lodge:

Henry Charles Hynman Allenby RWM

John Robertson WSW

Donald Dewar WJW

John MacKintosh MacKechnie, secty

David Stevenson SD

James Fraser JD

Robert Alexander Sr Std.

The Prayer of the Petition was granted and a Lodge erected, under the title, Lodge Loch Fyne No 754, to meet in Lochgilphead.

Our Sponsor Lodges were: Inveraray St John No 50

Rothesay St John No 292.

The first meeting was held in the then Courthouse, Lochgilphead, on Tuesday 20 March 1888, the Lodge being opened by a deputation from Lodge Inveraray, St John No 50, consisting of Bro Nicol Lemon - Acting RWM, Bro Alexander Mackay - Acting SW, Bro William Caush - Acting JW, and other members filling in the Junior Offices.

The Lodge was raised by stages to the Ultimate Degree, then reduced down, after which, Bro Lemon installed Bro Henry C H Allenby as the First RWM of our Lodge.

After a suitable interlude Bro Allenby installed some of the new office bearers into their places in the Lodge.

Rather surprisingly, to our modem outlook, 8 candidates were then proposed, seconded and prepared for their initiation, and 4 of the new Brethren went on to become MMs, altogether a very busy first meeting.

The second meeting was held on the following night when the remaining office bearers were installed and the other 4 EAMs were passed and raised. Weekly and sometimes twice weekly meetings were very frequent in these early days in our history, with 5 or 6 candidates forward for admission and initiation.

During this stage of research, it was interesting to read that on one occasion, an emergency meeting was arranged to suit a candidate from Tarbert who was 'going abroad to Wales within the week' to quote the minutes, he was proposed, balloted for, admitted and raised in the one evening, as this was agreed to by the Lodge to be a 'clear case of emergency

This state of rapid Degrees was clearly not confined to our Lodge, for this system continued for some 8 years, before an instruction by Grand Lodge on 8 June 1896, quote 'that 14 days must elapse between degrees' cancelled this practice.

At the meeting of 15 May 1888, it was agreed to adopt the Argyll Tartan as the Lodge colours and which we wear today.

It was also decided to form a sub-committee to draw-up the Bye-Laws for the Lodge which was subsequently carried out and approved by the Lodge on 29 May 1888 for forwarding to Grand Lodge.

By July of the same year, arrangements were going forward for the Consecration Ceremony, and the date of this was fixed by Sir Charles Dalrymple of Nehailes, the Provincial Grand Master for Thursday 9 August 1888, the hour of 6.00 pm being fixed by the Brethren.

Then as today Committee had great difficulty in finding suitable premises for the Consecration Dinner, as owing to pressure of the tourist season, the local hotels were not able to grant accommodation for so large a company. After a few setbacks, the matter was resolved by one of our members, Bro D McBrayne, who generously placed the RMPS 'lona' at the Lodge's service for the evening — provided that he, Bro McBrayne, would in no way be responsible for 'any breach of the Licensing Acts which might occur 'during festivities.'

These conditions were accepted, and it was also arranged that the Chief/ Steward of the 'Iona' would look after the catering, etc.

There cannot be many instances in the annals of Scottish Freemasonry that a Consecration Dinner of a Lodge was held aboard a Royal Mail Paddle Steamer. Transport was arranged by the Lodge in the form of horse drawn vehicles for the Brethren travelling to and from Ardrishaig Pier where the 'Iona' was berthed during her overnight stop.

The Consecration Meeting was held on Thursday 9 August 1888 and, from weather reports of that time, in brilliant sunshine.

A deputation from the Grand Lodge of Scotland had arrived that day by the RMS 'Columba' from Glasgow, taking up quarters in the Argyll Hotel, Lochgilphead.

A banquet was held in the Argyll Hotel Lochgilphead on 22 June 1897 to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria, and this was well patronised by the Brethren of our sister lodges and ourselves as the record shows it went on till the small hours of the following day.

A special meeting was held later that same year on Tuesday 17 August at 5 p.m. in Tarbert and it was arranged that after the meeting a dinner would be held in one of the hotels there. This is the first recorded occasion of a harmony held in Tarbert, and the function was so successful that its like has continued to this day.

By this time meetings were being held on less frequent periods than weekly, and subsequently steadied at the first Tuesday of each month, for 12 months, special or emergency meeting being excepted, but some of the Brethren felt that a recess should be taken during the summer months, but Provincial Grand Lodge would not allow this to happen unless our Bye-Laws were amended accordingly, so the matter was left in abeyance pending further discussion.

At the time of the local celebrations of King Edward's Coronation in June 1902 the Lodge was invited by the Town Council to join them in any public procession that may be organised. After due consideration, and permission from Provincial Grand Lodge to wear our Regalia outside the Lodge, we were well represented in the public procession that followed - the first occasion we had done so. In December 1902, on a regular motion to change the meeting night from first Tuesday to first Thursday was unanimously agreed to by the Brethren and modifications to our Bye-Laws were made and approved by Provincial Grand Lodge on 14 March 1903.

About this time some questions as to the legality of our Lodge meeting in Tarbert arose, but it was not until early in 1906 that Provincial Grand Lodge withdrew its permission for the holding of same, this decision needless to say caused quite a lot of dissent in the Lodge, and in May 1906, the Secretary was instructed to write direct to Grand Lodge asking for clarification on the matter.

It was with a great deal of satisfaction when in June, their reply indicated a unanimous decision that our Lodge should continue to meet masonically in Tarbert.

By early 1907 the Lodge membership had increased to such an extent that our meeting place in the Courthouse was becoming, on occasions rather cramped. Also, special permission had to be obtained from the Town Clerk if a harmony was to be held. Whilst this was very rarely refused, it was nevertheless a factor in the growing feeling among the Brethren that the Lodge should have its own premises. Accordingly a search for a suitable hall was embarked upon, various buildings were considered from time to time, but it was not till late December 1907 that a special meeting was convened to discuss the possibility of securing Haggart's property in Lochnell Street, which, with some rebuilding, would make an excellent hall.

From the Argyllshire Herald of 8 August 1908 comes this interesting paragraph: "The old building in Lochgilphead recently purchased by Lodge 'Lochfyne' with a view to the erection of a masonic hall is not without some historic interest. It is one of the oldest buildings in the burgh having been erected as far back as 1791, and for many years was occupied as a licensed inn - of which there were at least 30 in the town half a century ago. According to tradition Thomas Campbell, the poet, spent a night in this inn when on his way to visit Belatwes at Kirnan, at a time when the most convenient route from the low country was by way of Otter Ferry, and when it was customary for those travelling to the Kilmartin and Knapdale districts to spend a night at Lochgilphead on the journey."

It was decided that a special Building Committee be formed to investigate the
matter and report back to the Lodge.

In the interim, many heated arguments for and against the purchase were voiced at the meetings, one Brother objected, on the grounds that the hall would be further away from Ardrishaig; another, when it was pointed out the benefit of other premises for the occasions of harmony purposes, "did not consider it true masonry, just to have a new hall to hear some man sing". Others felt the Lodge would be a lifetime in debt, and so on. Receiving the Building Committees' favourable report, it was agreed to employ an architect to investigate and examine the property with a view to finalising the project, and to submit a report, to enable a decision to be made.

The receipt of the favourable report again caused much debating in the Lodge, and it was not till May 1908 that the property was purchased, after much haggling, for the sum of £53.13.3, to which added later the fees, for the legal search which found the property unencumbered, of £4.9.6 giving a total purchase price of £58.2.9.

The special Building Committee which had been formed prior to the purchasing of the property was then empowered to oversee the new project, in conjunction with the architect, on behalf of the Lodge.

Various plans were submitted, all without reaching agreement, and the feelings of the hard working committee can be understood, when in September, a motion to delay any work was put forward and carried unanimously.

Finally at the meeting of 15 April 1909, all estimates and bank loan were agreed to by the Lodge and the work was started.

So great was the progress made by the various contractors that by 30 July the memorial stone was laid by Bro Dr K Hewison, the Provincial Grand Lodge Chaplain, deputising for Provincial Grand Master, who was indisposed, with all the pomp and ceremony the occasion demanded.

It is interesting to note that the Silver Trowel used on that occasion was returned to the Lodge by Dr Hewison's sister on 1 November 1945 and is now displayed in the Lodge Room.

The Celebration Banquet was held in the Argyll Hotel, Lochgilphead and a most enjoyable evening followed in the presence of many lodge members ably abetted by the large deputation from Lodge St John No 50, who always supported our Lodge in the many functions held at various times.

The hall, now finished, consisted of 2 small dwelling houses divided by a common entrance with stairs leading up to the Lodge Rooms above, consisting of one large hall and 2 smaller rooms with toilet facilities. The final costs of the rebuilding of the property came to some £500 or thereby, which money had to be

found by the Lodge. One of our founder members, Past Master Bro Capt Donald Dewar, donated the sum of £500 on loan to ease the cash burden till the Lodge could repay same.

A Building Fund was started which received many donations from individual members and also from other lodges. It was decided to rent out the 2 houses and to hire the use of the large hall to selected applicants, when not required by the Lodge. Members' wives formed work parties and many extra-mural activities embarked upon, all bringing in much needed capital.

By all these various efforts over the years Bro Dewar's loan was repaid and the deeds of the property came into the Lodge's possession on 4 December 1913, some 4 years after acquiring the site and permission given to proceed with the work.

The first meeting in the new hall was held on Wednesday 24 November 1909 by special dispensation from Provincial Grand Lodge, to allow the Installation of Office Bearers to take place and so enable the Consecration Ceremony to take place on our usual Thursday meeting night.

The Ceremony of Opening and Consecrating the new hall was ably carried out by Sir Charles Dalrymple, Bart, of Newhailes, the Provincial Grand Master, in time honoured manner and afterwards some 60 members and visitors attended the festive board and harmony which followed, the first of many such occasions to be held over the forthcoming years to follow.

A special meeting was convened on Friday 20 May 1910 to mark the passing of King Edward VII. After adjournment, the Brethren were marshalled in the enclosure behind the Lodge and marched to the Courthouse wearing shrouded regalia, to join the other public bodies gathered there. All went in procession to the special service in the Parish church. On its conclusion the Brethren returned to the hall, and the Lodge closed with solemnity in due form.

It is interesting to note that the Lodge was requested to take part with the other public bodies in the Coronation Celebrations of 22 June 1911, showing a growing awareness of the Lodge in the community life of Lochgilphead, an interest which we continue with at the present day.

December 1911 marked the occasion that the Lodge, after much discussion agreed to erect a lamp outside the premises.

At the time this occurred it was not regarded as requiring any special arrangement to be made by the Brethren of that day so a small cake and wine gathering was held in the Courthouse after the meeting, to which a few local dignitaries were invited. Little did that gathering realise that, as previously mentioned, we became the proud owners of our own Lodge Hall, and we would establish closer ties with the Church, a good coming-of-age.

There was a growing feeling at that time amongst many members that a masonic church service should be held, and after discussions in the Lodge it was agreed to without dissent. Arrangements were left in the capable hands of our chaplain, Bro Rev A C Robertson to bring this wish to fruition.

Our first public service was held in Lochgilphead Parish Church on Sunday 4 May 1913 conducted by Bro the Rev J T Angus Morrison, MW Senior Grand Chaplain of Scotland, and Provincial Grand Chaplain of Glasgow, assisted by the Lodge chaplain Bro Rev Robertson. Over 60 Brethren from various Lodges were present together with their families, and these, in company with a large congregation of interested public, filled the church. These Masonic Services are still held today, but alternating yearly between Ardrishaig and Lochgilphead Parish churches.

During the Great War years, 1914-1918, the Lodge continued to function. Many calls were made on its benevolence, both in Argyll and nationally. A total of 60 Brethren served with the colours, whilst 8 made the supreme sacrifice, the first in 1915 being Capt Wm Todd - the architect both of our new lodge and Ardrishaig Public Hall.

The question of summer closing was again raised and discussed, and after several meetings a motion was tabled that the Lodge should close during the months of June, July and August, with the proviso that special meetings could still be called as and when required. The motion was carried unanimously on 4 May 1916 with the subsequent changes in the Bye-Laws to be sent to Provincial Grand Lodge for ratification.

They, however, were not very happy with this proposal and whilst granting occasional monthly closures, it was not till 11 June 1925 that full agreement was reached and the Lodge went into recess for the summer. In accordance with Grand Lodge ruling on 15 August 1916 our first Enquiry Committee was established consisting of RWM, IPM and Secy, all ex-officio members and 2 Brethren from the Lodge, a total of 5 members.

The end of hostilities saw the Lodge in good shape and viewing the future with great hopes of increase in membership and work involvement in the community affairs.

Unfortunately, meetings in Tarbert had diminished somewhat, a meeting being held there on 6 September 1916 in the school, and the next being in the Parish Church hall on August 1917. It came as no surprise when thoughts of establishing a Tarbert Lodge were voiced at our Lodge meeting of 5 August 1920, and after a discussion it was agreed to defer the matter to a future meeting in order to test the feelings of a greater number of our members than those who had attended the meeting that night, in view of importance of subject for decision.

It was not until November 1922 that this question of a new lodge had to be answered, for by this time we numbered some 53 members of our Lodge actually resident in the Tarbert area, and the Lodge indicated a general agreement on the matter. A petition was prepared and placed before the Lodge on 23 November 1922 which received unanimous agreement from all present but owing to a technical error in its make-up, it could not be completed. It was requested therefore that the amended petition be presented at our next meeting for signing. The new petition was presented to our Lodge on 7 December 1922 and all being in order, was signed by our Right Worshipful Master Bro Andrew V Peterson, Worshipful Senior Warden Bro M Burnett and Worshipful Junior Warden Bro J Auld, amidst great acclaim from all present. The petition was then forwarded to Grand Lodge for consideration and prayer that it be granted, and after some weeks the new charter was received on 1 February 1923 under the name Tarbert Loch Fyne No 1306.

Thus our masonic wheel had turned the full circle. As Inveraray St John No 50 and Rothesay St John No 292 had attended the birth of our Lodge No 754, we in turn together with Lodge Kyles of Bute No 1120 acted as mid-wives to a lusty bairn No 1306.

As the means of travelling improved, many social occasions were held by the various lodges in the province, and well attended and supported as records show. The Provincial Grand Lodge instituted Golf and Bowls Annual Competitions, held at various venues and our Lodge was well to the fore in these events. Sometimes these outings were attended by members' ladies, who whilst not competing, welcomed the opportunity of meeting the ladies of other lodges.

The following years showed a steady increase in membership, and even though our Tarbert members had received permission to support their new lodge, our meetings were well attended.

Much of the Lodge furnishings and accoutrements continued to be donated by the Brethren, one such outstanding gift was the twin set of Masonic door knockers, made from the engine room brass fittings of our old friend RMPS "Iona", which had finally be retired after 72 years of service round the Clyde and Western Isles, and presented to us by Bro D S Andrews on behalf of David MacBrayne & Co in 1936. Thus illustrating the close friendship between them and our Lodge and it is interesting to note that a few years ago, we were able to adorn the walls of our new Social Club room by 2 fine photographs of the "Iona" at Ardrishaig Pier.

Later the Lodge was requested by the town to attend the public memorial service for King George V held in Lochgilphead Parish Church. It was also during this period that Major H C M Allenby, a founder member and first RWM of the Lodge passed away after many years of service.

In 1937 the gas lighting was replaced by electricity, after the usual differences of opinions among the Brethren had been resolved. This was a much needed improvement, especially in view of the events to come in the following years.

Unlike the attitude of 25 years ago everybody was looking forward to some sort of celebration and although the actual time was in March 1938, it was decided to hold the function on Thursday 19 May 1938 by convening a special meeting with dinner and harmony to follow.

From the records of that time many lodges sent deputations or representatives,
and a full attendance of the Brethren was obtained, among them being:
Lodge Inveraray St John No 50 Argyll

Lodge St David (Tarbolton) Mauchline No 113 Ayrshire

Oban Commercial No 180 Argyll

Lodge St Kilda No 881 Inverness-shire

Lodge Langside No 955 Glasgow

Lodge Kyle No 1117 Ross & Cromarty

Lodge Tarbert No 1306 Argyll.

During the meeting PM James Anderson presented the Lodge with a new volume of the sacred law to replace the original one and to commemorate the Jubilee of the Lodge, after which it was then adjourned and the Brethren marched in full regalia to the Stag Hotel for dinner and harmony, later returning and resuming the Lodge before closing. Approximately 100 members attended a

memorable evening.

The period 1939-1945 was one which saw many lodges go into recess for the duration, but we were fortunate that, owing to a devoted collection of office-bearers the Lodge functioned throughout that period, enrolling new members, assisting in the various public charities of which there were many, helping dependants of our members, sending gifts to our Brethren in the forces, a record of whose services is not available, and above all, welcoming into the Lodge many Brethren, who were far from their own lodges, at home and overseas.

It can be appreciated that many office bearers served well beyond the normal tenure of same, and in some cases, not without great difficulty owing to their other duties in the situation existing at that time, and we today should ever remember their endeavours with gratitude.

February 1952 saw the Lodge in mourning for a period of 3 months on the passing of HM King George VI, a Past Grand Master Mason of Scotland. It seems a pity that our Diamond Jubilee in March 1958, did not receive any special mention, nor according to the records was any special function held. But perhaps our Brethren of that day were more phlegmatic about the history of the Lodge, than we are today about the approaching centenary. There is no doubt that the Lodge continued to prosper and was well and efficiently managed according to the various comments made from time to time at the visitations of Provincial Grand Lodge deputations to our Lodge.

The next decade was one of normal events in the life of the Lodge. No outstanding masonic events appear to have taken place, although the social side does show a marked increase between the Lodges, and the Benevolent Fund, and similar charities of the Lodge's choice seem to have benefitted by these functions.

So it seems quite in order when, as we entered the seventies, the mention of some kind of Social Club attached to the Lodge be formed appears in the minutes and as has been seen in the past, no radical change of such a nature could be undertaken without much debate, among the members.

November 1971 saw the retirement of Bro John Stewart, Treasurer for some 23 years, a worthy effort.

The May meeting of 1972 was the scene of a very active debate on the merits of a Social Club and also the possibility of acquiring a club licence, particularly as at this time, in keeping with many other lodges, owing to the general rise of the cost of living, the finances of the Lodge were rather strained to meet the fundamental costs of running and maintaining the establishment.

It was agreed, therefore, to use the summer recess to investigate the possibilities of such a move, and to give the members time to consider same.

In September 1972, after a full discussion it was agreed as a first step to apply for a club licence which, if granted, would enable one of the upstairs rooms to be used to dispense any refreshments at harmony etc. By October it was agreed to put forward a notice of motion to form a Social Club, under the existing rules of Grand Lodge.

Meanwhile the caretakers, who lived in the ground floor houses, had indicated their intention to retire and move elsewhere, and this then gave rise to what use this accommodation might be put to, if not for a caretaker, although there was not any immediate hurry, ideas soon began to be discussed among the members.

In March 1973, the application for a club licence was granted, and this further accelerated interest in the ground floor apartments, so that a preliminary set of Social Club Rules were evolved, and agreed to by the Lodge, during the meeting of April 1973.

We were honoured on 2 February 1973 by a visit from the then Grand Master Mason of Scotland, Bro David Liddell-Grainger of Ayton, during his tour of Argyll and the Isles, who took the opportunity to present a Masonic Tankard to Bro Coll Jackson PM to recognise 25 years service, as secretary to the Lodge.

Many social functions were held in the upper hall and enjoyed by all attending same, so it now became apparent that a Social Club management committee be formed, answerable to and under the control of the Lodge, with assistance from members' wives as and when required, for purvey etc. As time went on and the social side of the Lodge grew in the numbers attending functions, it was felt that the left hand living accommodation, now vacated, be turned into a small lounge with bar, and the right hand premises be converted into a games room with pool table and darts etc. This scheme was discussed at length and it was agreed to place the matter in the hands of an architect, whose final plans were accepted in October 1975.

The work of conversion was carried out by the members of the Lodge, under the leadership of PM Neil McPhee whose expertise resulted in well-finished lounge and games rooms, which filled a long felt want.

Later music and entertainment were added to the activities under the guidance of an Entertainment Committee, and social events became very popular and well attended, by members and wives and families, all of which brought in much needed income helping very much in the Lodge finances, particularly in the extra benevolence money available.

The annual visit of the Provincial Grand Lodge in May 197Q coincided with the presentation of Distinguished Service Diplomas to PM John Fleming and to Past Treasurer John Stewart by Provincial Grand Master Bro Hugh Thomson for meritorious service to the Lodge and Masonry.

The Lodge finances now being much improved, it was decided in January 1980 to establish Fabric Regalia and Centenary Funds for the future benefit and wellbeing of the Lodge, that it be maintained in the best possible manner.

As time went on it became apparent that the Social Club as it existed was not large enough to cater for the numbers who wished to use it, so a subcommittee was formed to investigate the possibilities of enlarging same.

It was soon realised that any large scale modifications utilising the existing ground floor and the area outside at the rear of the building would entail a study of Building and Fire Regulations etc so the services of an architect was felt to be necessary. This was agreed to by the Lodge. We were fortunate in having as one of our members Bro Tom Grant, a practising architect, and to him was entrusted designing and overseeing the conversion of the lower floor area to the Lodge's satisfaction and right well did he carry out his task.

It took many months for the various ideas regarding the requirements of the Social Club, and presented to the committee, to be collated into an acceptable scheme, but by September 1980, plans and a model of the reconstructed premises were presented to the members for consideration, resulting in general agreement and permission to proceed for planning and financial acceptance.

Many delays were experienced in overcoming the stringent Building and Fire Regulations, and also the financing of the project, so it was with a welcome relief, that the committee was able to present to the Lodge in February 1982 the final details and costs of the whole scheme, including financing, for the members' approval, which was agreed to, without dissent, thus allowing the various orders to be placed.

The contract was commenced in mid March 1982 and was completed by May of that year. Resulting in a complete transformation of the lower premises into the very comfortable quarters that we know today, and of which we are very proud.

It is interesting to note that during the reconstruction, the plaster was removed from the east gable revealing the beautiful original stonework of 1791, which has become such a feature of the Social Club.

Comparisons it is said are odious, but when the Lodge re-opened in September, everybody realised that having an entrance and a Social Club of such outstanding merit made the upper rooms very dowdy indeed, so it was agreed to refurbish the Lodge and ante-rooms, by re-carpeting and new decoration and lighting, financed by donations from the members, and without the aid of outside contractors.

Many nights and weekends were worked by enthusiastic volunteers, till the suite of rooms reached the standard set by downstairs and rounded off by the Lodge Room's murals. Executed by our member, Bro David Meikle, in such a striking manner, and much admired by members and visitors alike, so much so, that it was agreed that the Lodge Room would not be available for renting, in the future, but would be retained purely for masonic purposes, thus ending a practice that had lasted for some 70 years or more.

Our membership over the last century has ranged from the nobility to the humblest artisan, representatives from the professional worlds of Medicine, Chemistry, Law and Education, have all contributed their knowledge to the good of the Lodge, and in many a debate on divers matters, were more than balanced by the worldly wisdom of Engineers, Policemen, the men of the Sea and Forests, and all other who together make up the Brethren of our Lodge.

Taking an abstract from the various minutes examined, we still argue vigorously over any proposed changes, still find venues for outside entertainment hard to obtain, still complain about costs of rates, taxes etc and generally behave as a lively healthy lodge should. Long may this continue.

Much in the past was done to alleviate the hardships and distress of the dependants of our members when the need arose. Our help was given to hospitals, distress funds of national nature and similar good causes, so it is with quiet pride, that this facet of our order continues today on an even wider scale than any of our forebears could have envisaged, and often embraces recipients outside the terms of our order. May our future Brethren sustain this trend for the good of the community, amongst whom we have dwelt so long.

It is not in the mandate of this article to record the number of Brethren who have been raised to Master Masons within this Lodge, nor can this record be burdened with the recital of their names, who justly attained high honours within and outwith our Order.

Names and statistics tend to confuse the mind, and save in justifiable circumstances, this record has avoided making reference to the individual, in favour of recording the story of the Lodge itself. So it is fitting, in looking back over the past 100 years, that Lodge Loch Fyne has its contemporaries in Argyll, to exchange reminiscences with our sister lodges. May they too, have their anniversaries and Jubilees and remain in amity and concord with the Lodges of other jurisdictions, and may all continue to promote and maintain the sublime dignity of our order.

To all of us of Lodge Loch Fyne, of this generation and time, it is manifest we inherit the traditions built up by the long line of eminent members, who rendered such yeoman service, in often difficult times, and who have passed into our keeping the sacred trust of preserving, maintaining and processing the work to which they gave so much care and effort.

This responsibility will not rest lightly upon us, and, with an appropriate retrospection into what has passed, we go forward with an added enthusiasm to those labours and difficulties which lie ahead, and in the pursuance of which we invoke the name of the GA of TW.

It is fitting that the dosing paragraphs be the copy of an ancient masonic charge inscribed on the flyleaf of our first attendance register in 1888: "When the Lodge is closed you are at liberty to enjoy yourselves with innocent mirth, but carefully avoid excess, do not compel any Brother to act contrary to his inclinations, or give offence by word or deed, but enjoy a free and easy conversation.

"Avoid immoral or obscene discourse, and at all times support with propriety the dignity of your character, be cautious in your words and carriage that the most penetrating stranger may not discover or find out what it is not proper to be intimated, and if necessary waive the discourse, and manage it prudently, for the honour of the Fraternity.

"At home, and in your several neighbourhoods, behave as wise and moral men, never communicate to your families, friends or acquaintances, the private transactions of our different assemblies, but on all occasions consult your honour and the reputation of the Fraternity at large.

"Study the preservation of health by avoiding irregularity and intemperance, that your families, may not be neglected and injured, or yourselves disabled from attending to your necessary employments in life.

"If a stranger apply in the character of a mason, cautiously examine him in such a manner as prudence may direct, and agree able to the forms imposed upon by an ignorant false pretender, which you are to reject with contempt, and beware of giving him any secret hints of knowledge.

"But if you discover him to be a true and genuine Brother, respect him, if he be in want, without prejudice relieve him, or direct him, where he may be relieved, if you can employ him, do so, or direct him to employment, however you are not charged to do beyond your ability only to prefer a poor man who is a good man." Finally these rules are always to be observed and enforced, also the duties which have been or may have been communicated in the lecture. "Cultivate Brotherly love, the foundation and copestone, the cement and glory of this ancient fraternity, avoiding on every occasion, wrangling and quarrelling, slandering and backbiting, not permitting others to slander honest Brethren, but defending their characters and doing them kind offices, as far as may be consistent with your honour and safety no further.

"Hence all may see the benign influence of Masonry, as all true Masons have done from the beginning of the world and will do the end of time."

Amen, so mote it be.

Depute Master Bro G O Trower

Senior Warden Bro J Robertson

Junior Warden Bro D Dewar

Senior Deacon Bro D Stevenson
Junior Deacon Bro J Fraser

Secretary Bro John M MacKechnie & Bro J Young
Treasurer Bro W Jack

Chaplain Bro Rev C Robertson

Bible Bearer Bro Dr DCarmichael

Marshal Bro J Menzies

Director of Music Bro Dr J Hunter
Architect Bro C MacKay

Senior Steward Bro R Alexander

Junior Stewards Bro D MacLachlan & Bro A MacEwan

Inner Guard Bro J C Grant

Tyler Bro J Christie '

—oOo—

RW Master Bro A MacA Black PM

IP Master Bro A McCuaig

Depute Master Bro N MacPhee PM

Sub Master Bro D J W Mochrie PM

Senior Warden Bro F Hepburn

Junior Warden Bro E E Coles

Senior Deacon Bro R E Hutchison

Junior Deacon Bro D T Philand

Secretary Bro W McDonald PM

Treasurer Bro R B Caulfield

Almoner Bro A Wallace PM

Chaplain Bro W G Johnston

Bible Bearer Bro D McTavish

Director of Ceremonies Bro A J Cameron

Marshal Bro G MacLean

Architect Bro D Cameron

Inner Guard Bro Wm Kennedy

Tyler Bro D McGlynn

List of Right Worshipful Masters 1888 - to – 1988

Henry C H Allanby 1888-1889; John Young 1890;

James Hunter 1891; Alexander McDonald 1892;

Douglas McLachlan 1893; William Jack 1894;

Robert Finlay 1895; James W Fraser 1896;

Donald Dewar 1897; Joseph Campbell 1898;

Sir Arthur J Campbell-Orde 1899; Alexander McDonald 1900-1901; Duncan A Dickson 1902-1903; John MacTavish1904;

Alexander Blue 1905; Archibald Campbell 1906;

Alexander H Seaton 1907; Duncan Campbell 1908-1910;

Alexander McD Leckie 1911-1912; Alexander Crawford 1913-1914; William C Harvey 1915-1916; John Mitchell 1917-1919;

James Anderson 1920-1921; Robert Gauld 1922;

Andrew Peterson 1923-1924; John Brodie 1925- 1926;

Alexander Fleming 1927-1928; Donald Gillies 1929-1931;

Archibald Arnold 1932 -1934; Coll Jackson 1935-1936;

Peter Ferguson 1937-1939; Alexander McD Leckie PM 1940-1943; Duncan Shaw 1944-1945; David Bruce 1946-1957;

James Smith 1948; Alexander Robertson 1949-1950;

John Fleming 1951;John A Sinclair 1952-1953;

James Smith PM 1954; Robert W Mclnnes 1955-1956;

James Campbell 1957; John Fleming PM 1958-1959;

Archibald McKillop 1960-1961; Stanley Lupton 1962-1963;

James Barr 1964-1965; Archibald Wallace 1966-1967;

Donald MacMillan 1968; John McGlynn 1969-1970;

Alexander W Graham 1971 -1972; William McDonald 1973-1974;

David MacMillan 1975-1976; Neil McPhee 1977-1978;

Alexander M Black 1979-1980; Donald Mochrie 1981-1982; Alexander M Black PM 1983; Donald McCuaig 1984-1985;

Alexander McCuaig 1986-1987; Alexander M Black PM 1988.

LIST OF SECRETARIES SINCE 1888

John Robertson 1888; John M MacKechnie 1889;

John Young William Jack 1890; Robert Stewart 1891-1897;

Robert Duncan 1898-1902; John H MacCallum 1903-1904;

Duncan A Dickson PM 1905-1912; James Anderson 1913-1919; Alexander W Fletcher 1920; Hugh G P Fiddes 1921;

John Mitchell PM 1922; James Anderson PM 1923-1934;

Robert Willan 1935-1940; Alexander Crawford PM 1941-1944;

Peter White 1945-1946; Malcolm Galbraith 1947-1948;

Coll Jackson PM 1949-1972; Basil R F MacNay PM 1973-1978; David G W Cullen PM 1979-1982; William McDonald PM 1984-

—oOo—

William Jack 1888-1889; Dugald McAlpine 1890;

Duncan Campbell 1891 -1907; Alexander Blue PM 1908;

Donald McDonald 1909; James Anderson 1910-1911;

Duncan Campbell PM 1912-1918; Henry B Weir 1919-1921;

Harold A Hastie 1922-1924; Henry B Weir 1925;

Donald McLean 1926-1928; Archibald MacKechnie 1929-1930; John Dodds 1931-1937; John K Fleming 1938-1944;

William B McCracken 1945-1946; Ian Bullock 1947-1949;

John Stewart 1950 -1971; Stanley Lupton PM 1972-1975;

Ian MacAulay 1976-1978; John Stewart 1979;

Neil A MacDougal 1980-1982; Richard Caulfield 1983-

I am fully aware of the many omissions that may occur, and perhaps catch the critical eye of some brother more knowledgeable than myself. But I beg his indulgence and understanding, as all the interesting items and events reported in the minute books could not be retold, without seriously affecting the size of this booklet.

I am most indebted to PM A Black, PM William McDonald, secretary, and Bro Nicol Sinclair for the many hours given to extracting the relevant information from old records for me; to Mr Murdo MacDonald, Archivist, for his press researches and patience with my many questions; and not forgetting those kind friends, who loaned me anniversary booklets, within and outwith our Order, that I might have examples to guide me in producing this short history of our Lodge which I trust will be acceptable to our many friends both in and out of Masonry.

David G W Cullen PM, Past Secretary of Lodge 754 January 1988