This once-in-a-lifetime Bicentenary event, marking 200 years of Freemasonry in East Lancashire, was hosted at the iconic Manchester Hall by the Lodge of Silent Temple No. 126, a renowned Learning and Development Lodge dedicated to education, growth, and engagement within the Craft. Their hosting provided the perfect setting for a presentation designed to inspire both newer and more experienced brethren.
The meeting was honoured by the presence of the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master of East Lancashire, Robert Ian Frankl, who personally took the Chair for this historic occasion.
Adding further significance, the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master also took out his new Deputation Team for the very first time, marking their inaugural appearance at a Provincial event.
The presentation titled “The Masonic Journey: East Lancashire Past, Present and Future” was a dynamic production delivered by the East Lancashire Level Club (ELLC)—the club for Light Blue Masons in the Province—created especially to celebrate the Bicentenary of the Province of East Lancashire. Written & produced by Brother Aaron Garner, Chairman of the ELLC, the production showcased a talented cast drawn from the distinguished Light Blues of the Province.
Designed as an immersive journey through time, the production explored the origins, development, and defining moments that shaped the province. A central theme was the historic division of the original Province of Lancashire into West and East—a pivotal milestone that paved the way for the vibrant Provincial Grand Lodge we know today.
The three-part “Masonic Journey” was specially scripted for the Bicentenary celebrations of the PGLEL and narrated by the ELLC Chairman.
Part One brought history vividly to life as four costumed ELLC brethren portrayed key Provincial Grand Masters from the 18th and 19th centuries—three from the former Province of Lancashire and the first PGM of East Lancashire. Their performances offered an engaging insight into the leadership and legacy that shaped the early Province.
Part Two shifted the narrative to the present day, featuring six ELLC members representing each area of the province. With pride and passion, they spoke about what makes their regions, halls, and lodges unique celebrating the richness of heritage and the strong sense of community that defines East Lancashire.
Part Three concluded with a short but powerful scene by four more ELLC brethren, emphasising the crucial importance of recruitment in securing the ongoing growth, vitality, and future strength of the province.
After the presentation, The RW Provincial Grand Master offered his heartfelt thanks to the ELLC team for delivering such an exceptional and memorable presentation, praising their dedication, creativity, and contribution to the Province’s Bicentenary celebrations.
The event attracted over 100 Freemasons, filling the magnificent Manchester Hall with excitement and support. Distinguished guests, including the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master the Very Worshipful Deputy Provincial Grand Master, along with Assistant Provincial Grand Masters and his newly formed Deputation Team, which ensured this historic milestone was witnessed at the highest levels of Provincial leadership.
Following the meeting, the evening continued with a convivial Social Board, where brethren enjoyed warm fellowship, good humour, and lively conversation—bringing a memorable close to a truly landmark Bicentenary celebration.
You can see some pictures of this fantastic night here https://photos.app.goo.gl/n9bU58sn8cJJXVK7A
Story by Francesco Toto