150th Anniversary

Tuesday 10th December 2012

The 150th anniversary year commenced with the annual installation of office bearers on this evening. Bro. John P. Dallas was installed into the chair of the lodge for a second term in order to maintain continuity and experience in this important year in the history of the lodge. The ceremony of installation was carried out by Bro. Neil McD. Anderson P.M. and Bro. Robert C. Purdue P.M. who were warmly congratulated for their work by all brethren in attendance. A large number of brethren of the lodge attended the meeting together with visiting brethren, deputations of masters from local lodges and members of The Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East. An excellent start to this year. Attendance for the meeting was 137 members and visitors.

Thursday 27th December 2012,

The lodge was opened and normal business was convened. Past Master Bro. Robert C. Purdue then completed his installation duties by installing those office bearers who were not present at the Installation Meeting. The lodge office bearers carried out a very competent 1st degree on a candidate with Bro. Rafael taking part in a degree for the first time and presenting the apron, for the 1st time on the floor of the lodge. This was a special moment for both brethren as the candidate, Bro. Joel, was proposed by his friend Bro. Rafael. The meeting was well attended by visiting brethren and RWM of Lodge Inchinnan 1405, replied on their behalf for the welcome and hospitality received. Past Master Bro. Thomas Collie congratulated the RWM on the competent way he had chaired his 1st meeting, the RWM wished the brethren a happy new year, the lodge was closed and thereafter the RWM invited visitors to the masters room for some lodge hospitality. Attendance for the meeting was 57.

Monday 31st December 2012 – New Year Dance

A dance was held at the lodge to celebrate the entry into the New Year and also the 150th anniversary year of the lodge. Over 160 people attended and a great night was had by all.

Special thanks is extended to WSW Bro. Gordon Macleod for his efforts in organising the night.

Friday 4th January 2013,

The Lodge visited Lodge Inchinnan to confer the Fellow Craft Degree. Over 40 members of Lodge Prince of Wales were in attendance, together with brethren from neighbouring lodges joining our deputation, taking the deputation to over 60 members. The Right Worshipful Master of Lodge Inchinnan warmly welcomed us into the Lodge. The Fellow Craft Degree was conferred by our Substitute Master Bro. Gavin Gilmore, who did an excellent job supported by an excellent team. Special mention must be given to Bro. Jordan Strang who presented the working tools for the the degree for the first time at any meeting. Following the degree the R.W.M. John P. Dallas presented a special bottle of whisky (specially blended for Lodge Prince of Wales) as a gift to Lodge Inchinnan to mark the 150th aniversary year of Lodge Prince of Wales. A suitable evening of masonic harmony was enjoyed as always amongst very good friends.

Tuesday 8th January 2013,

Following the normal opening of the lodge a very eventful evening ensued.

Bro. Robin Auld, who had been initiated into the lodge on January 1963, was presented with a Grand Lodge of Scotland diploma in recognition of 50 years of service to Freemasonry. In a few well-chosen words the Right Worshipful Master congratulated Bro. Robin and thanked him on behalf of the lodge for his work and dedication over the years. Suitable expressions from both The Provincial Grand Master of Renfrewshire East and The Grand Master Mason of Scotland were extended to Bro. Robin also.

A small deputation from The Provincial Grand Lodge was admitted and following the traditional welcome the Senior Provincial Grand Chaplain, Bro. William Shirlaw, led a short service of prayer and suitable scripture reading to bless and dedicate a new set of office bearer’s regalia which had been purchased to mark the 150th anniversary year.

The second degree was then conferred on a candidate by Substitute Master Bro. Gavin Gilmour and a very competent team of lodge office bearers which included a young Junior Deacon who was taking part in a degree for the first time in his mother lodge with an excellent presentation of the relevant working tools. Attendance was 66 brethren.

The meeting was followed by an hour or so of lodge harmony.

Tuesday 22nd January 2013,

The Lodge was opened and the normal business was carried out, this having been done the RWM welcomed the visiting brethren. The Lodge was raised to the third degree and an excellent degree was carried out by PM Bro. Tom Collie. The RWM congratulated PM Bro. Tom on his fine work, and made mention of Bro. Ross Irvine performing in his mother lodge after a long absence from degree work. The RWM congratulated Bro. Joel on becoming a master mason.

Five visiting masters were present and the RWM of Lodge Paisley St. Mirrin replied on behalf of the visitors ,

Following the formal part of the meeting the visitors joined the RWM in masters’ room for some lodge harmony

Attendance at the meeting was 80 brethren.

Friday January 25th 2013 – Annual Burns Dinner.

The Lodge held its’ 56th Annual Burns Dinner with The RWM Bro John P. Dallas commencing the evening by welcoming everyone into the hall. He then introduced his top table guests as, Bro. Gordon Macleod WSW, Bro. Tom Collie PM, Bro. John S. Miller PGM , Bro.Neill McD. Anderson PM, Bro.Robert McPherson PM 1234, Mr Colin Neil, Bro. Robert C. Purdue PM , Bro. Gavin Gilmour SM, Bro.Thomas McCormick Sec., and Bro. Ron Alexander WJW.

The Lodge Hall set out for the Annual Burns Dinner 2013

The “Selkirk Grace” was the given by our Lodge Chaplain. The haggis, being carried by a stalwart of the lodge Bro. Alfie Purdue, was piped in by Mr Billy Smart. Bro. John Beattie then addressed the haggis in the traditional manner.

A superb supper was then served by Jim Kelly and his staff,

The entertainment commenced with a song from Mr. Alex Donnan who has sung at 54 Burns Dinners in the lodge.

The immortal memory of Robert Burns was given by Bro. Robert McPherson, PM of Lodge Clydebank 1234, who was followed by Bro. John Beattie relating the Tale of Tam o’ Shanter. Following a short interval Mr Colin Neil toasted the lasses with good humour, then Bro. John Beattie delivered “Holy Willie’s Prayer” which received a rapturous ovation since Bro. John, at 86 years of age had said it could be his last – We sincerely hope that it isn’t!!!

Following a second “comfort break”, Bro. Robert C. Purdue PM gave a toast to the speaker in his usual style. This, of course, was very well received by the audience and Bro. Robert McPherson suitably replied.

Bro. Neil McD. Anderson toasted the RWM on his chairmanship a great evening.

The RWM replied stating that it was a very special year for the lodge and that over the last 150 years the lodge has an unrivalled history. He made mention that the lodge had given Scottish Freemasonry two Grand Master Masons, four Provincial Grand Masters and eleven Honorary Members of The Grand Lodge of Scotland. – a truly excellent record. He then thanked everyone for their support of the lodge in it’s 150th anniversary year ,

Bro. Gavin Gilmour SM then gave a vote of thanks to the artistes and stewards following which the evening was closed with the singing of “The Star of Rabbie Burns”, “Auld Lang Syne” and The RWM wishing everyone a safe journey home.

Sunday 3rd February 2013,

The RWM Bro. John P. Dallas, in the company of Almoner Bro. Alistair Yarwood, and Bro. Gavin Gilmour S.M. of Lodge Prince of Wales No. 426, visited Past Provincial Grand Master of Renfrewshire East Bro. Andrew L. Tannahill at his home. Bro. Andrew is the oldest living Past Master of the lodge and was in fine form reminiscing of times gone past and at 96 he is still in very good health.

The RWM presented Bro. Andrew with the new lodge tie which marks our 150th anniversary year. Bro. Andrew hopes to attended the lodge’s anniversary dinner in November and we are that the members of the lodge will be delighted to see him there

Bro Andrew wished both the lodge and the brethren much success for this anniversary year.

Tuesday 12th February 2013

The regular meeting was opened and the normal business of the lodge was conducted. Reports were received from The Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East and The Grand Lodge of Scotland and, in addition, Lodge Almoner Bro. Alistair Yarwood gave a report on his visits to elderly and infirm brethren. The RWM thanked those brethren concerned for their diligence and fine reports. A small deputation from Lodge Firth of Clyde No. 626 presented the lodge with a Lodge Prince of Wales 100 year anniversary jewel which had been given to their lodge by a brother who wished it to be returned back to our lodge. The RWM gladly accepted the jewel and thnked Lodge Firth of Clyde for the kind gesture.

A deputation from The lodge of Erskine No. 1566 was then admitted into the lodge and warmly welcomed into Lodge Prince of Wales by the RWM who made reference to the fact that this was the first formal lodge deputation to come along to the lodge in this our 150th year ,

The Lodge of Erskine then conferred a Mark Master Mason’s Degree on a Master Mason of Lodge Prince of Wales. The degree was carried out to a very high standard at the conclusion of which The RWM of The lodge of Erskine returned the mallet and thanked the brethren of Lodge Prince of Wales for giving them the Honour of being the 1st deputation to visit the lodge to confer a degree in this 150th anniversary year.

Suitable marks of appreciation were given to The lodge of Erskine for the labours on the evening and the RWM also thanked all the visitors for there continuing support of the lodge. The RWM of lodge Craigielea No. 1218, Bro. Donnie Connell replied on behalf of the visitors.

Following the meeting the lodge enjoyed a great night of harmony with our friends of lodge Erskine and our other visitors.

The meeting was attended by 80 members and visitors.

Tuesday 26th February 2013

The lodge was opened in the normal manner. The RWM announced the death of Bro. James Gilfillan, a much respected brother of the lodge who had passed to the grand lodge above. A message of sympathy had been sent to the family.

A deputation from Lodge Inchinan No. 1405 headed by their RWM Bro. Richard Smith was then admitted and welcomed into the lodge by the RWM. Bro. Richard suitably replied to the welcome and joined the RWM and Past Masters in the East where he presented Lodge Prince of Wales with a crystal decanter to mark the lodges’ 150th year . RWM Bro. John P Dallas thanked the brethren of Lodge Inchinan for their gorgeous gift.

The Presentation Decanter from Lodge Inchinnan No.1405A deputation from The PGLRE, headed by SPGM Bro Robin Barker, was then admitted. This deputation was in attendance to carry out the annual visitation required by Grand Lodge. The SPGM received the mallet from the RWM, took control of the lodge and reported that the lodge operations for the previous year (2012) had been undertaken to the satisfaction of the examiners and that an entry to this effect had been written into the minute book. The SPGM then returned the mallet to the RWM for the continuance of lodge business.

The RWM then handed control of the lodge to the RWM of Lodge Inchinan to confer evening’s degree. The first degree was carried out to a very high standard and the RWM of Lodge Inchinan returned control of the lodge back to Bro. Dallas wishing the lodge success in its 150th year. The RWM of Lodge Prince of Wales replied in a suitable manner.

With the business of the evening complete the RWM of Lodge Union and Crown No 307 Bro. Paul Stewart replied on behalf of the visitors.

The lodge was closed and the brethren enjoyed masonic harmony in the company of our friends from Lodge Inchinan and other visitors.

The attendance at the meeting was 120.

Tuesday 12th March 2013,

The RWM opened and constituted the lodge and thereafter lodge business was conducted to the satisfaction of the brethren . The Bro. Almoner gave a report on the sick brethren, wives and widows of the lodge and was thanked for his continuing hard work on behalf of the lodge.

Visitors to the lodge were welcomed following which a deputation from our good friends Lodge Firth of Clyde No. 626 was admitted and welcomed into the lodge. The deputation was headed by their RWM Bro. Ian Mcfadyen. The RWM John P Dallas handed control of the lodge to the RWM of Firth of Clyde to confer the Fellow Craft Degree on our entered apprentice. The degree was carried out to the usual high standard demonstrated by Lodge Firth of Clyde and comments were made on the pleasure gleaned from seeing Bro. Rudie Stetz PM, an honourary member of Lodge Prince of Wales, deliver the final charge to the candidate.

At the completion of the degree the RWM of Firth of Clyde then handed the mallet back to Bro. Dallas thanking the brethren of Lodge Prince of Wales for the privilege of asking his lodge to confer this degree.

The RWM of Lodge Greenock Kilwinning No.12, Bro. Alan Beck, replied on behalf of the visitors.

The lodge was closed and the brethren then enjoyed an evening of harmony with our friends from the “Tail of the Bank”

The meeting was attended by 79 members and visitors.

Tuesday 26th March 2013,

Lodge prince of wales 426 was opened in due and ancient form. After some lengthy business the RWM Bro. John P Dallas welcomed the visitors into the lodge and thanked them for there contuining support.

The RWM raised the lodge and handed over the instrument of labour to PM Bro Johnnie Beattie to confer the Master Mason’s degree on the FC present.

PM Bro. Johnnie conferred an excellent degree and it should be noted that Bro. Johnnie is at the grand age of 87 and is still going strong. In his team was Bro. Robert Rerguson who presented the working tools for the very first time and was complemented for the excellence of his work.

The degree being completed, the RWM imformed the brethern of the details for the civic reception and the rededication service on the 2nd of November 2013.

The rwm of Lodge Moorpark No. 1263 replied on behalf of the visitors

Attendance on the evening was 73.

Tuesday 9th April 2013,

The Lodge was opened and the normal business of the lodge was conducted after which the RWM welcomed the visitors into the lodge and hoped that they would have an enjoyable evening at lodge Prince of Wales.

A large deputation from Lodge St. Leonard Loanhead and Lasswade No. 580 was welcomed into the lodge. The deputation, headed by their RWM Bro. Duncan Philips, was welcomed into the lodge by RWM John P. Dallas who invited Bro. Philips to take charge of the lodge and to conferee the Mark Degree on our Master Mason ,

The degree was carried out to a very high standard and control of the lodge was returned the RWM Bro. Dallas who thanked Lodge St Leonard for the evening’s work

RWM Bro Iain Hamilton of Lodge St Barchan No. 156 gave a suitable reply on behalf of the visiting brethren.

Attendance at the meeting was 72.

Tuesday 23rd April 2013,

Lodge Prince of Wales was opened in due and ancient form. The business of the lodge over, the RWM invited Bro. Gavin Gilmour S.M., to give a brief report on the business conducted at the meeting of The Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East. Thereafter Bro. Alistair Yarwood Alm. gave a report on the sick and elderly of the lodge with the RWM thanking both brethren for their hard work on behalf of the lodge.

The RWM made mention that Bro. Robin Auld had been awarded honorary membership of Lodge St. Michael No. 989.

The visitors were welcomed into the lodge and the RWM thanked them for there continuing support of Lodge Prince of Wales.

The RWM invited Bro Ross Irvine to confer the evening’s degree on two eligible candidates of the lodge. The degree was worked to a very high standard and the RWM thanked Bro. Ross for his fine work. Mention was made of the fact that, due to work commitments, it had been some years since Bro. Ross had conferred a degree. Bro. David Hyndman was congratulated for presenting the working tools for the first time in the lodge

The reigning masters from lodges 129, 275, 503, 1018 and 1218 attended the meeting with the RWM of Lodge Barns of Clyde 1018 Bro Fred McKelvie replying on behalf the visitors.

Attendance on the evening was 100.

Friday 26th April 2013,

A Sportsmen’s Dinner was held within the lodge hall, the second of events marking the 150th anniversary year.

The RWM Bro. John P Dallas welcomed everyone into the lodge, hoping that a great evening would be enjoyed by all. The speakers for the evening were introduced and welcomed by the audience. The speakers were retired football referee Mr. Willie Young and Mr.Sandy Strang

Chairmanship of the evening was handed over to Bro. Robert C. Purdue PM and following a grace a superb meal was served up by Mr. Jim Kelly and his staff.

The meal over, the chairman introduced Willie Young who entertained the assembly of stories of his refereeing days. He was given a standing ovation for the humour in his tales of the past.

Mr. Sandy Strang followed with a superb act telling tales of every day life and he also was given a standing ovation. (If the opportunity arises it is recommend that you see these two gentlemen)

The chairman then invited the RWM to say a few words in which he thanked the artists and catering staff for their hard work in making the evening such a success.

Attendance at this social evening was 130.

Tuesday 14th May 2013,

The lodge was opened in the usual manner and the normal business of the lodge was completed. The RWM invited Bro. Gavin Gilmour SM to give a report on the meeting of The Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East following which the Bro. Almoner was invited to submit his report on his visits to our sick and infirm brethren and their families. The two brethren were thanked for their hard work on behalf of the lodge.

The RWM also thanked Bro Robert Purdue PM for organising the very successful sportsman diner.

The lodge was moved to the second degree and a large deputation from Lodge St Barchan No.156 was admitted into the lodge headed by their RWM Bro Iain Findlay Hamilton. Bro. Hamilton was handed control of the lodge to conferee the fellowcraft degree on two brethren of Lodge Prince of Wales. The degree was carried out to a very high standard and, on handing control the lodge back to RWM John P. Dallas, Bro Hamilton thanked the brethren of Lodge Prince of Wales for allowing him the honour of conferring the degree in this special year for the lodge. RWM Dallas thanked Lodge St Barchan for their labours of the evening.

The RWMs from Lodges 242 and 1042 were in attendance and the RWM of Lodge Houstoun St. Johnstone 242, Bro George Barkley replied on behalf of the visitors .

Attendance at the meeting was 88 brethren and visitors.

Tuesday 11th June 2013,

Lodge prince of wales was opened in due and ancient form, after which the RWM announced the death of two brethren of the lodge. Bro. Arthur Duffin, who had served the lodge as treasurer for many years, and Bro. Iain F. MacDonald PM who was the RWM in 1963 when the lodge celebrated its 100th year. Both brothers received a masonic service at the temple with the services being well attended on both occasions.

After some lengthy business, the RWM invited the Bro. Almoner to give a report on the sick brethren of the lodge, Bro. Alistair Yarwood, Almoner, was thanked for his hard work on behalf of the lodge.

The RWM thanked the brethren who had accompanied him on lodge visitations to lodges Moorpark 1263 and Clydebank 1234. He then informed the brethren that two members of the lodge, Bro John Sothers PM and Bro Alfie Purdue, had received honorary membership of lodge Clydebank 1234.

Business complete the RWM invited the lodge office bearers to confer the evening’s Master Mason’s degree on two fellow crafts of the lodge. The degree was carried out to a very high standard and the RWM thanked the office bearers for their fine work making mention that it was a delight to see Bro. Ross McCelland presenting the tools. The RWM congratulated the two newly made master masons of the lodge.

The RWM then asked the brethren if there were any further business to be put before the lodge. Bro. Thomas Clark asked the RWM for permission to make a presentation to the RWM of lodge Barns of Clyde on behalf of Erskine Hospital following which the RWM of Barns of Clyde No.1018 made a suitable reply to the presentation.

Six masters from visiting lodges attended the meeting, these being 156,716,1018,1218,1234,1405. The RWM of lodge Craigielea No.1218, Bro Donnie Connell, a great supporter of lodge prince of wales, replied on behalf of the visitors.

Attendance at the meeting was 93 members and visitors.

Friday 14th June 2013,

Ten brethren of Lodge Prince of Wales set off from Renfrew for Gloucester at 6.30am to visit The Prince of Wales Lodge No.951, which was celebrating it’s 150th anniversary. (The same year as our own Lodge)

The meeting took place in the very impressive setting of Gloucester Cathedral.

The members of Lodge Prince of Wales, Renfrew No.426 were warmly welcomed by all the brethren of the Gloucester lodge who were delighted to see their brethren from Scotland.

The meeting opened at 5pm and thereafter a deputation from the Provincial Grand Lodge of Gloucester entered the lodge, headed by the Provincial Grand Master. Taking control of the lodge, the PGM gave a fine speech on the history of Lodge 951 following which he handed the lodge back to the Worshipful Master of 951 and thereafter the lodge carried out a fellow craft degree.

Following the closure of the meeting the brethren retired to the great hall for dinner where a number of toasts were made to the lodge.

The RWM of Lodge Prince of Wales No. 426, Bro John P. Dallas, then presented Lodge 951 with a a stainless steal mallet and plinth, crafted by PM Bro David Cuthbert, to celebrate their 150th year. Bro. Dallas also thanked the Worshipful Master and Brethren of Lodge No.951 for the warm welcome his deputation had received, and hoped that they would cement their friendship in the coming years.

Gloucester Cathedral

Members of our Lodge outside Gloucester Cathedral

Tuesday 9th July 2013,

On a blistering hot evening Lodge Prince of Wales was opened and the business of the lodge was carried out.

The RWM then asked the brethren for any reports to come before the lodge, The Bro. Almoner gave a report on the sick and elderly of the lodge and thereafter Bro Robert Collins PM gave a short report on a recent visit to Prince of Wales Lodge No.951 in Gloucester, England. Both brethren were thanked for there fine reports.

The RWM then welcomed all visitors into the lodge expressing his hope that they would enjoy their visit to the lodge.

Normal business completed and visitors welcomed, The RWM invited the Depute Master Bro. Allan McCormick to confer the evening’s first degree on the candidate.

The degree was carried out to a very high standard with the RWM commenting that he was immensely proud that his own brother Bro. Allan had carried out the ritual in a dignified manner and also made mention to the brethren that Bro. Joel Meesan had presented the apron to a candidate for the first time.

Once again the lodge had many visitors including 6 Masters, A SPGM, and a PGM from Perthshire. With us also on this evening was Bro. Hugh Barclay from lodge Bar-e Frere 254, Australia. Bro. Hugh thanked the lodge for the warm welcome he had received.

At the close of the meeting the RWM informed the brethren that members of the Lodge would be doing a 20 mile sponsored walk as this year’s Bro. Campbell Blakely Memorial Charity Event with funds raised being donated to The British Stammerers Society and ENABLE Renfrew.

Masters from 392, X11,1234, 597, 151, 1042 were in attendance with the Master from Lodge Craigends No.1042, Bro. Ian French replying on behalf of the visitors.

Attendance at the meeting was 100.

The Bro. Campbell Blakely Memorial Charity Event 2013

Day 1 Saturday 20th July

This year’s charity event had to be done over three weekends because of diary issues for those wishing to take part. The event was a sponsored walk of approximately 20 Km along the towpath of the Forth & Clyde Canal and, in what was a magnificent spell of Scottish weather, a number of Brethren and friends started off in blistering heat. One team started off at 08.30am (Bro. John P Dallas and Bro. Allan McCormack) in an attempt to get a start in the relative cool with a second team (Bro. Frank Slack PM., Bro. Ross Irvine & a friend) starting off at 10.00am. Both teams made very good progress throughout the walk and were caught on camera and video at various points along the way (full video and photographic evidence to follow after all teams complete. The walk for both teams on day 1 finished on their return to Renfrew via the Renfrew Ferry (and a pint in The Ferry Inn for at least the second team.

Left to Right – Bro’s John P. Dallas & Allan McCormack

Left to Right – Bro. Frank Slack PM., Friend (name to follow) & Bro. Ross Irvine

Day 2 Saturday 27th July

The second day was not quite as warm as day 1 and a single team of walkers started off at 10.00am. The 8 person team consisted of three friends (Christine, Gary and son Adam Louttit) and 5 brethren of the lodge (Bro’s Robert Allison, Tom James, Ron Alexander, Scott Wright and Willie Blakely) This walk finished at the official stated completion point Lock 27 on the canal as a few of the walkers were a bit older than those of the previous week and it was felt that they had done enough. Once again the success of the walk was celebrated with a drink. On this occasion the photographer/videographer was June Blakely (wife of Bro. WillieB)

Left to Right – Mrs Christine Louttit, Mr Gary Louttit, Mr Adam Louttit and

Bros Robert Allison, Tom James, Ron Alexander, Scott Wright, Willie Blakely.

Day 3 Saturday 3rd August

The third day started early with the walkers Bros. Gavin Gilmour and Sam McIntyre starting off at Auchinstarry at 07.45am. The weather was not quite as good as on the previous weekends and it looked as if there may be a bit of rain during their day. The walk finished at the official end point, Lock 27 as, once again, the walkers thought that they had done enough walking. The usual celebration drink was taken inside the Lock 27 Bar as the rain was quite heavy when the walkers finished.

Left to Right – Bros. Sam McIntyre and Gavin Gilmour

Charity Walk Video

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Tuesday 13th August 2013,

The Lodge was opened in the usual manner and, following the normal business, the RWM master invited the Bro. Almoner the give a report on the on behalf of the sick and infirm brethren of the lodge. The RWM thanked Bro Alistair Yarwood for his hard work and, reports completed, the visitors were welcomed into the lodge. Amongst the visitors were the PGMRE Bro John S. Miller and PG Chaplain / Junior Grand Chaplain RWM Robert Craig.

The Lodge was passed to the second degree and the WSW Bro. Gordon Macleod was invited to confer the Fellow Craft degree on our E.A. The degree was carried to a very high standard with Bro. Gordon conferring the degree for the first time as was Bro. Joel who presented the tools of this degree for the first time. All brethren who took part in the degree were praised for their fine performance.

The RWM invited the PGM Bro John if he would care to address the lodge. The PGM thanked the lodge for the welcome he had received and added that he was looking forward to the Rededication Ceremony on the 2nd of November to mark the lodge’s 150th year. The RWM Bro. Dallas thanked him for his fine words and for the help in organising the forthcoming ceremony in November.

The lodge had once again many visitors including ten masters from 597,360,156,392,1386,1234,153,151,729,233,and also the master elect from 1779. The master from lodge Clydebank 1234, Bro Edward Rae replied on behalf of all the visitors

Attendance at the meeting was 118.

Tuesday 10th September 2013,

Lodge prince of wales was opened in due and ancient form by the RWM and thereafter the normal business of the lodge was conducted. The RWM welcomed the visitors into the lodge stating that he hoped that they would enjoy their evening with the brethren of Lodge Prince of Wales.

The RWM thanked the brethren who accompanied him on the Lodge’s recent visit to Lodge Union & Crown No. 307.

Bro. Robert C. Purdue PM was invited to confer the evening’s degree on a Fellow Craft of the lodge and the 3rd degree was carried out to Bro Robert’s usual high standard. The RWM thanked him and his team for carrying out a first class degree .

Once again the lodge had many visitors including 2 masters from 1218, 1405,

The RWM of Lodge Inchinnan 1405, Bro Richard Smith, replied on their behalf.

Attendance at this meeting was 65 .

Friday 20th September 2013,

A special meeting was held at Lodge Prince of Wales on Friday 20th of September, as part of the Lodge’s 150th Anniversary celebrations. Lodge Union & Crown No. 307, had kindly agreed to perform a Dramatised Fellow Craft Degree.

The evening commenced with the RWM Bro. John P. Dallas opening the lodge and welcoming the visitors into the lodge. Thereafter a large deputation from our good friends from Lodge St Leonard Loanhead & Lasswade No. 580 were admitted into the lodge headed by their RWM Bro. Duncan Phillips.

The Deputation from Lodge Union & Crown No. 307, headed by their RWM Bro. Paul Stewart, were then admitted. Bro. Stewart was invited to the East where the RWM Bro Dallas presented him with the mallet and the authority to confer the evening’s degree. The degree was carried out to a very high standard and iit is recommended that, if you get the opportunity to see 307 performing their dramatised degree, it is well worth a visit.

Degree completed, Bro. Stewart returned the mallet commenting it was an honour to be asked to perform the degree at Lodge Prince of Wales in it’s 150th Anniversary year .

Once again the Lodge had many visitors including 8 masters from XII,129, 156, 233, 354, 524, 580, and 729.

Replying on their behalf was the RWM of our sponsor Lodge Paisley St. Mirrin No.129 Bro. Gordon Aitkin.

Attendance at the meeting was 118.

Tuesday 24th September 2013,

The lodge was opened by the RWM and the normal business of the lodge was conducted following which the RWM welcomed all the visitors into the lodge.

A deputation from Lodge Moorpark No. 1263 was admitted and welcomed. Heading the deputation was their RWM Bro. Kenny Wark.

The 1st Principal of The Baron of Renfrew Royal Arch Chapter No. 114, M.E.Companion Thomas McKenzie, presented the Lodge with a beautiful box containing the Working Plans for the Temple, which are used in a Mark Degree, to celebrate the Lodge’s 150th Anniversary. RWM Bro.Dallas thanked The Baron of Renfrew Royal Arch Chapter, for the generous gift.

The RWM presented Bro Wark of Lodge Moorpark with the mallet and ask him and his lodge to confer the Mark Degree on 3 brethren of the lodge. The degree over, RWM Bro. Wark retuned the mallet and wished the lodge much success on its 150th year. RWM Bro Dallas thanked him and his lodge for the way in which they had conferred the degree.

The RWM Elect Bro Allan Provan of Lodge Georgetown Cardonald 1170 replied on behalf of the visitors.

The meeting’s attendance was 78.

Tuesday 8th October 2013,

Before the meeting commenced the RWM Bro. John Dallas presented 2 cheques from the Campbell Blakely Memorial fund to charities of the masters choice. The charities chosen this year were The West of Scotland Stammering Network and Enable Scotland (Renfrew). Representatives of both charities came along before the meeting and were presented with cheques to the value of £750. James and Iona from the W.S.S.N. and Charlie Newlands from Enable Scotland thanked the RWM for the generous donations and asked him to pass on their thanks to the brethren of the lodge.

The lodge was then opened and the normal business conducted. Bro. Alistair Yarwood was asked to give the lodge a report on the sick, elderly and infirm brethren following which he was thanked for his hard work on behalf of the lodge. The RWM then informed the lodge that he had presented 2 cheques on their behalf from the Campbell Blakely Memorial fund totalling £1500 which was the sum raised during this year’s charity event – an excellent effort by those concerned.

The general business over, the RWM invited the WJW Bro. Ron Alexander to confer the evening’s degree on 2 gentlemen . The degree was carried out to a high standard and Bro. Ron was thanked for his efforts

The Master informed the Brethren of the arrangement’s for the up and coming 150th rededication ceremony on the 2nd of November.

The lodge had many visitor once again and the RWM of Lodge Greenock Kilwinning No XII Bro. Alan Beck replied on their behalf.

Attendance on the evening was 88.

Tuesday 22nd October 2013,

RWM Bro. John P. Dallas opened the Lodge in due and ancient form and thereafter the lodge had some lengthy business to complete. With this business completed, the RWM invited Bro. Peter Angus Muchan to the floor where he presented Bro. Peter with his 50th year diploma from The Grand Lodge of Scotland. In a few well chosen words the RWM congratulated him on his achievement.

A deputation from Lodge Clydebank No.1234, headed by their RWM Bro Edward Rae was then admitted. Bro Dallas welcomed the RWM and the deputation into the lodge and invited Bro. Rae to confer the Fellow Craft Degree on two Entered Apprentices of the lodge. The Degree was carried out to Lodge Clydebank’s usual high standard and, on completion, Bro. Rae returned control of the lodge back to Lodge Prince of Wales offering his best wishes for the forthcoming Rededication Ceremony on the 2nd of November.

The RWM informed the brethren of the arrangements for the Civic Ceremony and Rededication Ceremony both of which are being held at Renfrew Town Hall.

Once again the lodge had many visitors and the RWM thanked them for there support of Lodge Prince of Wales. Among the visitors were five masters from lodges 129,1170,1263,1304 and 1405. The RWM of Lodge Cocknoo No.1304 Bro John Bain replied on their behalf.

Attendance at the meeting was 105.

Saturday 2nd November 2013

The Civic Reception, The Ceremony of Rededication and The Anniversary Dinner Part 1 – The Civic Reception

On a very wet, windy and miserable day, the lodge’s special day began with a Civic Ceremony in the newly refurbished Renfrew Town Hall. Renfrewshire Council had given the lodge the honour of the Civic Ceremony to mark it’s 150th anniversary.

The Lady Provost, Anne Hall, welcomed the RWM Bro. John P. Dallas and the brethren of the lodge into the Town Hall. Also in attendance were the Provincial Grand Master of Renfrewshire East, Bro John Samuel Miller together with a large deputation from The Provincial Grand Lodge and Past Depute Grand Master Mason, Bro. Archibald McGowan leading a large and distinguished deputation from The Grand Lodge of Scotland.

After formal introductions, the Lady Provost delivered a speech commenting that she felt honoured to be hosting the Ceremony on behalf of the council, making reference to the reputation for charity work which the lodge had gained in the town over the years.

The Lady Provost, Anne Hall, and R.W.M. John P. Dallas

Bro. John Samuel Miller PGM, The Lady Provost, Anne Hall, Bro. Archibald McGown PDGMM and RWM J. Dallas

The RWM thanked her for her kind words, adding that the lodge had a long association with the council, with the first Right Worshipful Master, Bro. Henderson holding the office of Provost during his tenure as master as was Bro John McGregor who also held both offices. Bro. Dallas also added that the first Lord Blythswood, the then Grand Master Mason and a member of Lodge Prince of Wales, had laid the foundation stone in the town hall in which we were then standing.

P.G.M. Bro. Miller and P.D.G.M.M. Bro McGown also thanked the Provost for her warm welcome to the freemasons attending the reception.

Following the formal part of the ceremony, the R.W.M. showed the Lady Provost some photos from the lodge through the years. She was intrigued by the page from the attendance book in which the then Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII, had signed the book on his visit to the lodge in 1876.

A great start to the day

Renfrew Town HallThe setting for the 150th Anniversary Celebration of

Lodge Prince of Wales No.426

The photograph opposite shows the imposing frontage of the town hall which dominates the view when approaching the town centre via High Street. The building was recently refurbished both inside and out and is considered to be a magnificent setting for the anniversary celebrations of 150 years of freemasonry in the town

The image above shows the inside of the main hall set out for the rededication meeting.

Lodge Prince of Wales is justifiably proud of the historic link it has with this fine building. The foundation stone was laid with full masonic honours by the then Grand Master Mason, a past-master of the lodge.

Part 2 – The Meeting and Ceremony of Rededication

RWM John Pirie Dallas(relaxing prior to the opening of the historic meeting)

A special meeting of the Lodge Prince of Wales, Renfrew, No. 426 was held within Renfrew Town Hall at 3.00 pm.

The Lodge was opened in the entered apprentice degree, passed and raised to the third degree and visitors were welcomed. The Reception of a Deputation of Reigning Masters from within and out-with our province followed. This deputation was headed by RWM of Lodge St Barchan No. 156 Bro. Ian Hamilton. The lodge was then reduced to the first degree and recessed. On re-opening, RWM Bro. John P. Dallas handed over the mallet to The Provincial Grand Master and The Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East was then opened, passed and raised to the third degree by RWPGM Bro. John Samuel Millar. Bro. John welcomed visitors from England and made a special welcome to PM Bro. Andrew L. Tannahill (PGSB), the oldest living PM of Lodge Prince of Wales. This was followed by the reception of Bro. Archibald McAllister McGowan, Past Depute Grand Master Mason & and a fine deputation from the Grand Lodge of Scotland.

Provincial Grand Chaplain Bro. George Shirlaw led the brethren in prayer following which a consecration hymn was sung. Bro. Dr Ian McPhee presented an informative and humorous dissertation on the history of Lodge POW 426 which focused on events of 1863 and the lodge’s first meeting. This was followed by another prayer.

Consecration of the Elements.

Provincial Grand Chaplain the read from the sixth Chapter of the Book of Ezra and reaffirmed the Objects of Freemasonry as brotherly love, truth and discipline. The First Perambulation involved the presentation of the Cornucopia which was rededicated to benevolence and charity. The Second Perambulation involved the presentation of the vessel of wine emphasising the qualities of strength and virtue. The Third Perambulation involved the presentation of the vessel of oil which brings joy, peace and harmony in future undertakings. The PG Chaplain then read a section from the eigth Chapter of the Book of Nehemiah which highlighted the importance of happiness and prosperity among people. A Prayer of Thanksgiving was followed by the closing of Provincial Grand Lodge.

The Ceremony for Rededication of Lodge Prince of Wales No. 426 began with the lodge being resumed in the first degree by The Provincial Grand Master, aided by the Worshipful Wardens of Lodge Prince of Wales. The RWM Bro. John P. Dallas took an obligation on behalf of the brethren. The RWM was placed in the South, recording the services given from brethren in the past. The Provincial Grand Chaplain made special mention of the services from PM Bro. Edward Bledge (HGSB). The RWM was then placed in the West and the services of present brethren were acknowledged such as our RWM and wardens Bro. Gordon Macleod (WSW) and Bro. Ronald. W. Alexander (WJW). A prayer was offered with brethren reminded of the need for patience and humility. Finally our RWM was placed in the North, in which the services of future brethren was called upon and special mention was made of Bro. Joel Messan. A prayer of thanks was future services of brethren was given the Provincial Grand Chaplain.

The RWM and Wardens were then placed in their respective chairs by the Provincial Grand Master and his Wardens following which Standard of Lodge Prince of Wales No. 426 was presented to brethren assisted by Bro. Gavin T. Gilmour (SM) and accompanied by the music of bag pipes.

The PGM returned the gavel to RWM Bro. Dallas wishing our lodge continued prosperity in the future. Our RWM suitably replied, thanking the PGM for his services during the ceremony.

The deputations from The Grand Lodge of Scotland and The Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East then retired.

The lodge was blessed with many visitors including 22 masters of other lodges. The RWM of Lodge St. Barchan 156, Bro Ian F. Hamilton. Repied on their behalf.

Attendance at this meeting was 217

Members of Lodge Prince of Wales, Renfrew No.426 after the meeting

Disertation written and presented at the meeting by :-

Bro. Dr. J. Iain McPhee, PhD; MSc; BA (hons) Pg Cert. TLHE; Pg Cert. Research; FHEA., University of the West of Scotland.

Introduction,

RW Past Depute GMM; PGM, Distinguished guests; RWM, PM’s and brethren. Freemasonry is an important part of my life and like many of you here, the craft continues to bring many great memories to cherish. I am therefore grateful to the PGM of Renfrewshire East, Brother John Samuel Miller for this opportunity to play a small part in today’s 150th anniversary celebrations. You will be pleased to hear that I do not intend to give a full dissertation on the history of this lodge, that of course for another time. Some of the key moments are documented by your RWM John Dallas in the programme and in more detail on your Lodge website by PM Bobby Collins.

Historical Context

While I was researching the dissertation for this lodge, Prince of Wales, 426, I considered how freemasonry and the outside world looked 150 years ago in 1863. In 1863: Albert Edward, Prince of Wales (later Edward VII) married Princess Alexandra of Denmark in Windsor Castle.

That decade saw:

The birth of Earl Haig, founder of the British Legion, The birth of Ramsay MacDonald, first Labour Prime Minister of Great Britain, Birth of Music Hall entertainer Sir Harry Lauder, who popularised the myth of Scots being miserly with their cash; a tradition carried on today in certain parts of our province, Alexander Graham Bell patented the telephone, The last public execution by hanging in Perth, The Scottish Reform Act gave the vote to working class men for the first time – women were to be given suffrage much later, The Cutty Sark launched from the river Clyde: these new fast ships were required to outmanoeuvre pirates intent on stealing their precious cargo of tea. Less well known is her use to transport opium from British colonies in India to China, Death of James Bruce (8th Lord Elgin). As a special envoy to China who engaged in gunboat diplomacy during the Second Opium War of 1858, and “One o’clock gun” fired for the first time from Edinburgh Castle.

Music

Music that was popular during the year of the birth of this lodge acted characteristically to influence how we understand the world. During the American civil war, soldiers from both armies were buried to the soulful strains of ‘Taps’ played on a trumpet or bugle. Interestingly, the term taps originates from the Dutch word ‘taptoe’, meaning “close the (beer) taps to encourage the soldiers to return to camp. The term “Military tattoo” derives from the same origin. In 1863 the music for the song ‘When Johnny Comes Marching Home’, was published, this popular song was sung during the American Civil war. After the confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered, Abraham Lincoln asked a band to play “Dixie” saying it had always been one of his favourite tunes. No one could miss the deep symbolism being expressed through music. This was a grand gesture; the modern equivalent would be the PGM (and PM David Cuthbert) singing the ‘Soldiers song’ at a harmony.

The Town of Renfrew

The town has a Population of just over 20,000. Renfrew, known as the “Cradle of the Royal Stewarts” gained royal burgh status in 1397 to become the County of Renfrew. The current Baron of Renfrew is His Royal Highness the Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay (The Prince of Wales) holds lands in the area, and gives the lodge her name.

Local Economy

When this lodge received its current charter, the major industry of Renfrew was shipbuilding, and in particular the building of sand dredgers. Renfrew is home to the engineering company Doosan Babcock (formerly Babcock and Wilcox); a company that has given this lodge many initiates, and several RWM’s.

The Lodge

First meeting of lodge the Prince of Wales 426 took place in the premises of Wheatsheaf Inn, Fulbar Street, in the town centre. The first master of the lodge, James McLintock Henderson was a shipbuilder; the highest wage a skilled shipbuilder could earn was up to £64 pounds a year. On reading your first minutes, I note that the lodge agreed that the cost of initiation should be 40 shillings or £2. First new entrant into lodge 426 on 17th November, documented by the Depute Master and Secretary William Sim. The average age for a domestic worker was £2-£3 pounds a year; you can see that £2 was great deal of money in 1863. Since 1863, the lodge has 150 years of unbroken freemasonry. The lodge continues from strength to strength, initiating many hundreds of masons into this fine lodge. The 4th Lord Blythswood proposed the future King (Albert Edward) into lodge POW 426 in 1886. Then as now, Lodge POW is an important part of the fabric of the town, of the craft, our great province in Renfrewshire East. I look around this great hall and I see the brethren of lodge Prince of Wales 426, you should be very proud of your lodge history, and today must be proud that this celebration enhances further your reputation as ambassadors for our great craft. I offer my warm and sincere congratulations to lodge POW on this day of your celebrations.

Thank you brethren.

Part 3 – The 150th Anniversary Dinner

Due to the large numbers, the dinner was a little late in starting but once under way it proved to be an evening to remember.

RWM John introduces his Top Table GuestsA top table of fifteen were aplauded into the temple by the brethren in the usual masonic manner and thereafter the RWM Bro. John Dallas introduced the lodge’s top table of distinguished brethren. WSW, Bro Gordon Macleod; Bro Edward Grady PM; Bro William Shirlock; Bro Kenny Coleman, PM, 307; Bro Robert Purdue PM, RWPDGMM Bro Archibald McGown ;RWM Bro John P. Dallas; RWPGM John S. Miller; Bro Frank Slack IPM, Bro Neil Anderson PM; Bro Gavin T. Gilmour SM; Bro Edward Bledge PM, RWM Bro Gordon Aitkin PM 129, Bro Adam Dixon PM 1330, & WJW Bro Ronald Alexander. Following the introductions the RWM invited the Lodge Chaplain Bro David Cuthbert to say grace.

The Top Table during the mealJim Kelly, whose company normally provides catering for lodge functions, and his staff served a fantastic meal, in a very quick and organised manner. Thanks and congratulations were extended to Jim and his staff on behalf of the brethren.

Immediately following the meal, the RWM outlined the evening’s programme to the brethren and thereafter called an interval so that the tables could be cleared.

After the interval the RWM asked the brethren to be up standing for the Loyal Toast, in doing so he invited the RWM of Lodge Greenock Kilwining VII, Bro Alan Beck to sing the National anthem. The RWM thanked Bro Alan.

The first toast of the evening was to the Grand Lodge of Scotland and was very ably proposed by Bro Frank Slack IPM who thanked the representatives of GLoS for attending the celebrations of the lodge and also commented on the good work the GL carried out.

RWPDGMM Bro Archibald suitably replied on their behalf, thanking the lodge for the invitation to it’s special day.

Bro Robert Purdue PM then made a toast to the Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East, commenting on the way they had carried out the Rededication Ceremony in the afternoon. He also adding that the lodges of the province were indebted to the PGL for all it’s support and guidance but particularly Lodge Prince of Wales in the preparation for the 150th Anniversary Celebrations.

The PGM Bro John S. Miller replied to the toast thanking the lodge for giving PGLRE the privilege of carrying out the ceremony in the Lodges 150th year. He also made mention of the service given to the lodge by Bro Edward Bledge PM over many years and in many offices.

The toast to Lodge Prince of Wales was made by Bro Kenny Coleman PM 307. Bro Kenny’s toast was informative and amusing, both of which we have come to expect for Bro Kenny.

RWM Bro John P. Dallas replied to the toast thanking Bro Kenny for his kind words made towards Prince of Wales, also commenting that the lodge had a history which the brethren of the lodge should be rightfully proud of.

The RWM then informed the Brethren, that on the 2nd of November 1923, the then RWM Bro Duncan S. MacGregor had presented a cheque to the unemployed brethren of the lodge. In doing so he held it aloft , and remarked, “Brethren in the spirit of Freemasonry”. The RWM Bro Dallas remarked that he would like to present a cheque to the sum of £300 in that same spirit to the PGLRE.

RWPGM suitabley replied on receiving the cheque.

Substitute Master then made a toast to the sister lodges make reference of the suport the lodge had received from them.

The RWM of Paisley St. Mirrins 129, Bro Gordon Aitkin , Suitable repied on their behalf.

The final toast was by WJW Bro Ronald Alexander who proposed a toast to the Stewards and Artists for there fine work during the evening, especially Bro Adam Dixon PM ,1330, who had performed a number of songs during the evening.

With the evening drawing to a close the RWM Bro Dallas thanked everyone for their support of Lodge Prince of Wales in this it’s 150th year.

The night finished with the traditional singing of “Auld Lang Syne.

The dinner was attended by 200 Brethren.

For Interest, here are a flavor of some of the speeches.;

Toast to the Grand Lodge of Scotland, proposed by Bro. Frank Slack, IPM

R.W.M, distinguished brethren of The Grand Lodge of Scotland, Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East and other lodges represented.

Brethren , The Grand Lodge of Scotland was founded on the 30th November 1736 meaning they also have recently celebrated an anniversary , their 275th , with many highs and achievements of the years I am sure but too many to summarise in this speech .

So on this special day for Lodge Prince of Wales I looked for connections between the G.L.O.S. and ourselves, if you have read today’s programme, you will see this lodge has obvious connections with the G.L.O.S.:This lodge has given 2 Most Worshipful Grand Master Masons of Scotland.

1 Depute Grand Master

3 Grand Chaplains

1 Grand Senior Deacon (at the meeting today)

1 Grand Junior Deacon

Names and dates as per the programme.

This is a fact that we are very proud of and grateful for, in particular, to Grand Master Mason A.A. Hagart Spiers, an Honorary Member of this lodge, for his donation along with those of a few others encouraged our predecessors to build this very temple that we celebrate in tonight.

If you are a Prince of Wales member though you will have heard these facts before and some of you many times before.

So I tried to find some new connection and stumbled across this on the Grand Lodge website. In the ‘news’ section it states ‘The Kings Speech, how is the recent blockbuster film connected with Freemasonry? ’ The connection between the film and Freemasonry is that King George VI, who was propelled to the throne as King after his brother abdicated, had only a few weeks earlier been installed as Grand Master Mason of Scotland.

But what of the similarity of this Grand Master Mason born with a severe speech impediment who went on to deliver that famous radio address inspiring the British people in the face of the impending war to that of our own leader and R.W.M. in our special year? Although you would not think it brethren it was only in 2003, just 10 years ago, that a Mr John P. Dallas through this lodge and P.G.L. obtained permission from the G.L.O.S. to be admitted into our craft without repeating any obligations in his degrees due to the fact that at that time he also suffered severe difficulties with his speech. From then to now brethren I’m sure you will agree, considering there has been no special treatment on-route to the chair, that this is another great achievement.

The Grand Lodge article ended as follows:

The newly installed Grand Master Mason, the Duke of York, had no difficulty in delivering his two addresses. This was some considerable time before the unconventional speech therapist, Logue, had been employed to assist him to overcome his speech impediment. It is suggested that this was due to the fact that he was not confronted by a crowd of strangers but a crowd of Freemasons, Friends, and Brothers.

Brethren it is for similar reasons such a large organisation requiring 32 Provincial Grand Lodges throughout Scotland and District Grand Lodges stretching from New Zealand to Newfoundland can guide us for we are all one and working together.

From this Province we have I.P.M. Brother David A. Reid now climbing the ladder of Grand Lodge , currently Grand Inner Guard but also instrumental in committees to do with charity & benevolence. He is also heavily involved with The Scottish Masonic Holmes. Brethren, as long as we have Brethren with these principles involved in our Grand Lodge we will be in safe hands .

Brethren the Grand Lodge of Scotland may not be as big as the Grand Lodge of England, or as old as the Grand Lodge of Ireland, but we are the best!!!

Past Depute Grand Master Bro. Archibald Mcallister McGown, we thank you for leading Grand Lodge of Scotland into Renfrew for our 150th celebration. I am sorry to report though that there has been a complaint made to the local police, to do with a possible sighting of the notorious ‘Green Brigade’ in Renfrew Town centre and your name has been passed on as their leader.

Brethren, please be upstanding for a toast:

‘THE GRAND LODGE OF SCOTLAND’

Reply by PGM Bro John S. Miller, to the toast by Bro Robert Purdue, PM.

RWM, RW Past Depute GM, Distinguished members of GL, Past PGMs, distinguished members of PGL & Brethren all;

Firstly may I express my thanks to PM Brother Robert Purdue for his kind toast to PGL.

It has been an honour and privilege for PGL to have been invited to undertake the Reconsecration and Rededication of Lodge POW No. 426 today.

For such an auspicious occasion as a 150th Celebration, normally we would see Grand Lodge undertake the Ceremonial, however as you know GL were committed elsewhere today over in Fife with the 200th Celebrations at Lodge……..and therefore could not be here today and GL sends their best wishes through Brother Archie who is accompanied by a distinguished Deputation from Grand Lodge today.

Although it’s a pity that GL could not take up your invitation to them to be here today, I`d like to say that I`m really quite pleased that they were already committed and that the honour therefore fell to PGL.

I would at this time express my thanks to Depute PGM Bro. Neil Fraser, SPGMs Bros. Dr. Iain McPhee and Willie Fleming, PG Chaplain Bro. Bill Shirlaw, PG Organist Bro. Brian Beacom MBE and Brother Alick Currie PG DOC for their contributions this afternoon and my thanks also to Bro. David Reid IPPGM for his assistance with the choreography for the Ceremonial.

Perhaps it is appropriate that PGL has been given this greatly appreciated opportunity to join in your 150th celebrations – after all, 426 has only given Grand Lodge two GMMs , both of whom were PGMs of Renfrewshire East i.e. the 1st and 4th Lords Blythswood –

– but you have given this Province four PGMs , the two just mentioned plus Bro George Glen 1913 – 1917 and of course Bro Andrew Leckie Tannahill 1977 – 1982 – still going strong at 98 ?

The excellent Programme for the day sets out in detail this Lodge`s contribution to both Grand Lodge and PGL – and I won`t repeat that, other than to say that it is a record, with which, Prince of Wales 426 is rightly proud.

I mentioned during the Rededication the wonderful contribution made by one brother who epitomises the high ideals of POW 426 – Brother Edward Bledge – initiated in 1948 , 65 years of tremendous service as an office bearer , Chaplain for 7 years , Secretary for 25 years and retiring from that position only 2 years ago.

Brother Bledge was RWM in 1966 – 1967. Now 1966 was a bad year for Scottish Football fans although the brethren from the English Constitution would argue that it was a great year for football.- we will agree to differ !

1967, the second year of Eddie`s term as RWM, saw a great revival in the fortunes of Scottish football , with a “first” that reverberated throughout world football – – –

– Scotland beat the World Champions, England, 3 – 2 at Wembley – who can forget the impudent performances of Jim Baxter & Dennis Law that day – perhaps only our English Brethren?

Lodge Prince of Wales has been of great service to this Province and to Grand Lodge for the past 150 years and we trust that that will continue for another 150 years.

No one has given more than the legend who is Andrew Leckie Tannahill PPGM, 98 years old and still going strong – a great example to us all.

Currently in the ranks of PGL Office Bearers we have PM Brother Jim Scott and in PG Committee we have Brother Gavin Gilmour Substitute Master and we expect Bro. Gilmour to be installed as RWM on 10th December.

I`d like to mention another brother whose health has given him some problems in recent years but continues to give great service to POW – Brother Neil Anderson PM. Bro. Anderson resigned from his position on PG Committee last year due to health reasons after a number of years as this Lodge`s representative and we wish him well in his battle.

I know I speak on behalf of all at PGLRE , past and present , when I congratulate POW 426 once again on reaching this wonderful milestone in the Lodge`s history.

In particular I must congratulate RWM Bro. John Dallas, for his stewardship as RWM of the lodge over these past two years not only for his advertising and organisation of this celebration today but for the excellent attendance figures achieved over that period , an average of 89 per meeting – some lessons for us all there, in hard work bringing success!

Congratulations to all at POW 426 – I look forward to your 175th! its only 25 years away and I`m approaching it one day at a time – so far so good !

Finally, my thanks again to Brother Purdue for his Toast to PGLRE and to you Brethren, for the manner in which you have received this reply.

RWM Bro John Dallas , reply to the toast to Lodge Prnice of Wales;

PDGMM, PGM, GL, PGL, BRETHREN ALL,

Can I first thank Bro Kenny for his very kind toast to Lodge Prince of Wales?

Bro Kenny it was an excellent toast and you have certainly entertained us with your natural flair and talent.

Brethren, I am humbled by the number of Brethren who have come along to join us in celebrating our 150th year. And also by the support you have given this lodge throughout the years.

People comment that freemasonry is in decline, but we have showed here today that the craft is in a very state in the Province of Renfrewshire East. And much of that credit must go to the PGLRE, for their programs on education and retention.

Brethren, as we celebrate our 150th year, we should remember the Brethren who have gone before us, they nurtured and maintained this lodge, and had the foresight to build this magnificent temple.They also set standards which I hope will always be maintained in this lodge.

So, it is an honour to be standing here today as the RWM of this fine old lodge, A lodge which has given Scottish Freemasonry two Grand master masons , Four Provincial Grand Masters, a history in which the Brethren this lodge should be rightfully proud of.

But as we look to the future, we must help and encourage younger Brethren, not only for the good of the lodge but also for the good of the community.

Before finishing, I would like to thank the PGM Bro John S. Miller for all his help and advice over the last year.

I would also like thank the brethren of Lodge Prince of Wales for having the confidence in me to be their RWM in this very special year.

May I also thank all the sister lodges for allowing me mention our 150th at their meetings?

Can I once again thank my FRIEND and Bro, Bro Kenny for his very kind toast to Lodge Prince of Wales?

Brethren, it only remains for me to thank everyone on behalf of Lodge Prince of Wales for your support.

Thank you