The idea of forming a new lodge was first discussed by various members of Trafford Lodge No. 1496 which was consecrated on 1st January 1874. This Lodge was in the Province of West Lancashire. They met at the Masonic Hall on Edge Lane in Chorlton-cum-Hardy which is about 5 miles from the centre of Manchester, where most of the members worked and they thought that it would be more beneficial if they could meet nearer the centre of this great city. Many of the Founders either worked in, or had connections with, the Royal Exchange building and initially, the name chosen was The Royal Exchange Lodge and the intention was that Trafford Lodge be named as the Mother Lodge. This immediately produced a major problem, for Trafford Lodge was in the Province of West Lancashire and the new lodge was to be formed and to meet in the Province of East Lancashire. The officials at East Lancashire insisted that the Mother Lodge be one in the Province of East Lancashire and so Imperial George No. 78 (as the oldest Lodge) was nominated for that roll and of course remains so to this day. In addition, it was thought that the name ‘The Royal Exchange Lodge’ was too long and so it finally became just Exchange Lodge, as we know it today. Consecrated in 1930.

A masonic meeting has two distinct parts. The first is ceremonial and the second social. We enjoy the ceremonies and seek to give every member a part within their ability so they can enjoy the night. We have sufficient members to ensure ceremonies are delivered as planned be not too many active masons to restrict advancement in a brothers masonic career should the wish. The social board is relaxed and fun. We are friendly and welcoming to men who are interested in freemasonry and visitors from other lodges.

We meet at Manchester Hall, Bridge Street at 6pm on the 3rd Monday of January, February, March and April. We then have a summer break and meet up again on the 3rd Monday of October and November. We hold our Installation meeting on the 2nd Saturday in December when we start at 3pm. We would expect to be heading home about 10pm after each meeting.

We are brothers and friends together. We make every meeting special. Once a member, every brother has a say in the direction of the lodge. We have a good standard of ritual and fabulous camaraderie at the social board.