On 26 January 2026 our Assistant Provincial Grand Master and a deputation from the Area Team had the solemn duty to visit The Rochdale Lodge 6721 for its final meeting.
However, despite this being the final meeting, many brethren attended to support the lodge members. The lodge was opened in due form, the APGM welcomed and the minutes of the previous meeting read. Followed by an address of the history of the lodge and a closing eulogy.
Rochdale Lodge No. 6721 Closing Eulogy
With the closing of the Volume and the opening of a door,
Think not this Lodge has ended-think of all that went before.
Remember Rochdale Lodge, whose light for years did shine,
Guiding worthy Brethren here by purpose true and sign.
Recall those faithful Brethren who, as Apprentices, first came,
Who learned with care and laboured well in friendship’s honoured name.
They shaped their lives by square and rule, by compasses made true,
As Masons worthy of the name, in aprons white and blue.
When now the Working Tools are laid so reverently aside,
Think not their labour ended-think how they were applied.
Remember well the lessons taught to craftsmen tried and true,
Within Rochdale Lodge No. 6721, in all they strove to do.
When Tracing Boards are covered, and the Columns laid to rest,
Think not their teaching ended-receive the message blessed.
For Master Masons gathered here know well what these recall:
Of birth and life, of learning gained, and waiting for the call.
With the sounding of the gavel, as the lights at last grow dim,
Think not this Lodge has ended-nor let uncertainty creep in.
Worshipful Master, Wardens, Brethren, as now we part this night,
Let Rochdale Lodge No. 6721 live on in Masonic light.
For though its doors are closed in form, its spirit shall not depart—
This Lodge shall live forever on, in every Mason’s heart.
So, Mote, It Be.
History of The Rochdale Lodge No. 6721
Brethren, today we gather to honour the long and distinguished history of The Rochdale Lodge No. 6721, a Lodge that has served the Craft, the Province, and the brethren of this town with pride, dedication, and, on occasion, a good measure of laughter, for more than seventy-seven years.
The Lodge was consecrated on the 6th of December 1948 under warrant from the United Grand Lodge of England, at a time when the country was rebuilding and Freemasonry was flourishing. Across the Province of East Lancashire, there was a clear need for new Lodges where Brethren could advance, serve, and occasionally test each other’s patience with ritual that was enthusiastic, well-meaning, and sometimes wildly optimistic.
The origins of our Lodge lie firmly with Hope Lodge No. 54, at the time, one of the oldest and most respected Lodges in the area. At the time, Hope Lodge was flourishing, but with membership growing, there were only so many chairs available, and many brethren found themselves “stuck in the waiting room of progress,” politely clapping others through the offices they hoped to attain before retirement. A small group of committed, forward-thinking, and perhaps slightly impatient Brethren decided enough was enough. Acting in harmony and full brotherly cooperation (as all breakaway groups naturally do), they petitioned for a new warrant. And thus, The Rochdale Lodge No. 6721 was born, taking the Town’s name, bringing with it new opportunities, new rituals, and, of course, new opportunities for friendly arguments about seating arrangements.
From its consecration, the Lodge held its meetings at the Rochdale Masonic Hall on Richard Street, a building that has long been at the heart of Freemasonry in the Rochdale District. The Lodge quickly settled into a familiar rhythm: meetings on the fourth Monday of each month, an Installation meeting in February, and always enough tea and biscuits to fuel even the most energetic of Master Masons.
Over the decades, the Lodge became known for its warm fellowship, high standards of ritual, and an ability to laugh with, as well as at each other. One of its most cherished traditions was the annual December celebration marking its consecration, better known as the Lodge Birthday Party, a gathering fondly remembered for its entertainment, camaraderie, and, on at least two occasions, a very enthusiastic attempt at a couple of Lodge pantomimes. These performances included unforgettable costumes, some questionable acting, and at least one occasion where Peter Rhodes seized the opportunity to wear a dress and matching makeup with such confidence that several brethren applauded in disbelief. According to its members, it has always been the best Lodge in the Province, which is a statement that has been repeated with pride and occasionally a knowing wink ever since.
Distinguished Brethren of the Rochdale District: Over its many active decades, The Rochdale Lodge No. 6721 was home to, and supported by, a great number of
distinguished Brethren from across the former Rochdale District. Among its
membership were:
- District Officers who represented the Lodge with dignity.
- An Assistant Provincial Grand Master, whose leadership, experience and service brought honour and recognition to the Lodge.
- An Assistant to the Provincial Grand Principals, who serves with distinction in the Royal Arch and kept us well-behaved whenever improvisation was mistakenly thought to be “a good idea.”.
- Brethren who led the Provincial Pathway’ membership process, ensuring new candidates were welcomed and occasionally tested for their ability to endure gentle Masonic teasing.
- Respected Past Masters who guided the Lodge through change and growth, occasionally reminding everyone that “tradition” should not be confused with ”doing it the way we’ve always done it.”.
- Dedicated Provincial Officers whose service extended the Lodge’s influence and reputation.
- and many long-serving members whose quiet loyalty and consistent attendance formed the backbone of the Lodge for generations, and whose jokes we will sorely miss.
These Brethren serving in Craft, Chapter, District roles, and Provincial initiatives helped establish a reputation for dignity, good order, genuine friendship, and, when needed, a good laugh. Their collective dedication is woven into every chapter of our history, and we acknowledge their service with pride, affection, and just a touch of humour.
A Legacy That Endures: Throughout its life, The Rochdale Lodge No. 6721 contributed consistently to Masonic charity, supporting local causes as well as Provincial and national appeals. Its generosity became one of its defining hallmarks, earning the Lodge numerous accolades across many Masonic Festivals over the decades. Time and again, the brethren of 6721 went above and beyond the expected, rallying together with determination, good humour, and the occasional friendly competition to outdo themselves year after year.
The Lodge welcomed generations of men into the Craft, guiding them through their degrees, offering fellowship, and occasionally reminding them that while the ritual may be serious, the people performing it are allowed a smile and a well-timed jest. Its charitable spirit, combined with its warmth and camaraderie, helped build a legacy of kindness and service that extended far beyond the walls of the Lodge.
The Lodge has also been no stranger to tragedy. Over its many decades, it has mourned the loss of some of its most cherished and respected Brethren who sadly passed to the Grand Lodge Above far before their time. These were men whose influence, kindness, and good humour shaped the very character of the Lodge. Many were not only valued pillars of Rochdale Lodge but were also held in high esteem throughout the province, remembered for their service, their leadership, and the lasting impression they left on all who knew them. Their absence has been felt deeply, yet their legacy continues to inspire the brethren who follow in their footsteps.
Today, as we mark the closure of the Lodge on this 26th day of January 2026, we do so with reverence and warmth. A Lodge is more than a number or a warrant; it is a living community shaped by the men who passed through its doors. Though the Lodge now concludes its formal labours, its light and its laughter does not go out.
The friendships formed here, the lessons learned, and the contributions made to the town and the province remain enduring.
Brethren, we honour the founders who came from Hope Lodge No. 54, the generations who sustained the Lodge with dedication, and the many distinguished members from the Rochdale District, including District Officers, Provincial leaders, Royal Arch officers, and those at the forefront of the Pathway process, who gave it strength, character, purpose, and, let’s not forget, a healthy sense of humour.
The Warrant may be surrendered, but the spirit of The Rochdale Lodge No. 6721 lives on in all who were part of its story, and in the memories, laughter, and fellowship it has gifted us all.
The final duty was for the brethren to form a circle and the lodge warrant was passed hand to hand by all the attending brethren. This concluded with the Worshipful Master passing the warrant to the APGM and both retiring from the lodge room for the final time.
All brethren equally retired and join a very lively and fraternal social board.
