Monday 19th June 2023 saw over 60 freemasons gather at Salem Lodge in Dawlish to celebrate not only their 150th Anniversary as a working lodge but also the dedication of a new Banner.
In attendance were the complete team of the Devonshire Executive, led by Nicholas Ball, together with both Provincial Grand Wardens, the Provincial Grand Chaplin, 6 Grand officers and many Active Provincial Grand Officers.
The lodge was opened and the provincial team entered into the lodge, the history of Salem Lodge was then read in a very able fashion by Colin Adams and then the Worshipful Master Richard Heal proffered the gavel to The Provincial Grand Master which on this occasion he accepted and took possession of the masters chair, the Provincial Director of Ceremonies then conducted the other officers of Provincial Grand Lodge to their respective places in the lodge.
In the Provincial Grand Master's opening address, he made reference not only to the glorious and long history of the lodge but also to some of the events which were taking place in the country at the time when the Warrant of Constitution was granted in 1873, William Gladstone was prime minister, Alexander Palace burnt down after being opened only sixteen days earlier, I. K. Brunel’s atmospheric railway was running between Exeter and Newton Abbot passing through Dawlish, to name just a few, but the main theme of his message was to reflect and learn and to consider the future of Freemasonry, it’s membership and it’s buildings.
The new banner shows a lion resplendent with the Latin inscription “Pax Et Lux”, which when translated means “Peace and Light”, shown on a beautiful blue background.
The banner was escorted into the lodge where it received a blessing from Adrian Rogers, the Provincial Grand Chaplin, followed by an oration of well-chosen words. The Provincial Grand Master then entrusted the banner to the care of the Worshipful Master on behalf of his lodge.
When the meeting closed, those present retired to the refectory and enjoyed a superb festive board and although it was one of the warmest evenings of the year the feeling of camaraderie between the brethren was as warm as the weather and everyone went home knowing that they had been witness to a very special event in the history of the lodge.
