In 1976, in celebration of the 400th Anniversary of the founding of Dartford Grammar School, a number of Old Dartfordians and a few other like minded men who shared the same principles promulgated by both the School and, for that matter, Freemasonry, founded a Masonic Lodge. So proud were they of the connection of this new Lodge with the Grammar School that they named it William D’Aeth Lodge in honour of one of the Founders of the School.

That Lodge is still in existence and meets four times each year. Because of the limitations of recruiting members solely from the School, the Lodge has opened its doors to a wider audience, but we still have among our members several Old Dartfordians, as well as members and supporters of the Dartfordians Rugby Club.

OUR MEETINGS

We meet at Dartford Masonic Centre, West Hill, Dartford on the third Wednesday in the months of March, June, September and December.

Meetings usually commence at around 4.30 to 5.00pm and last for approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours. After the formal business of the meeting has been concluded the Lodge is closed and the members and Masonic guests dine together in the Masonic Centre at what is known in Masonic terminology as a Festive Board. The Festive Board is much less formal than the preceding meeting and the emphasis is more on conviviality.

At our December meeting we invite wives, partners and non-masonic friends to join us at our Festive Board when we also sing Christmas Carols.

Each year, usually in July, we hold a Summer Soirée when wives, partners and non-masonic guests are again invited to join us. On this occasion there is no formal meeting; it is purely a social gathering providing an opportunity for family and friends to meet up, rekindle old friendships, make new ones, and enjoy a meal and perhaps a drink or two together in a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. For the past couple of years our soirée has been held at Gravesend Rugby Club.

AN INVITATION TO YOU

If you are interested in becoming a Freemason, or simply curious, you are cordially invited to join us at our Soiree on 20th July at Gravesend Rugby Club or at our Christmas meeting on Wednesday December 19th at Dartford Masonic Centre.

Alternatively, on Sunday 9th September the Masonic Centre West Hill is holding an open day for anybody that may be interested in Freemasonry, details of which will feature in the local press for the two weeks prior to the event. We shall be represented along with a number of other local Lodges

This will be an opportunity to hear about the broader aspects of masonry in an informal atmosphere, and you will be encouraged to ask any questions about such things as ritual or regalia. There will also be guided tours of the Lodge Room.

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT FREEMASONRY

Freemasonry is the oldest fraternal organisation in the world. The first Grand Lodge was formed in London in 1717.

At the heart of our organisation is charity. We endeavour to support local as well as national charities.

Freemasonry demands that its members hold a belief in a Supreme Being. As an organisation it is interdenominational and the discussion of Religion and Politics is prohibited at our meetings.

We also require that any prospective member has the full support and co-operation of his wife or partner.

THE NEXT STEP

If, after due and prolonged consideration, and we insist upon prolonged consideration, you are interested in becoming a Freemason you will be invited to attend an interview which will give you and us the opportunity to ask more questions. The purpose of the interview is for you to gain a greater understanding of Freemasonry and its demands, and to determine if it is right for you, and conversely, for us to ascertain whether we consider you to be a fit and proper person to be made a Freemason.

WHY NOT VISIT US

If you would like to visit us at any of the events listed, or require more information, please contact:

Derek Eastley at: mogeast1@gmail.com

or Graham Haggar at:

graham.haggar@gmail.com

both of whom are Old Dartfordians.

We look forward to meeting yo