Grand Masonic Bazaar (1895); to raise funds to clear the debt incurred by “Mother Kilwinning” in rebuilding their Lodge.
Whilst editing the article entitled A Visit to the Mother Lodge of Scotland by Carlos Oliveira Santos, I was happily picture sourcing when I came across this little gem – the guide to the Grand Masonic Bazaar which was held in Glasgow during December 1895, to raise funds for the restoration of Mother Lodge Kilwinning, No. 0.
Mother Lodge Kilwinning, No. 0. : the Hon. Thomas Cochrane, M.P., R.W. Master, and P.G. Master of Ayrshire. Bazaar guide. Grand Masonic Bazaar in Trades’ Hall, Glassford Street, Glasgow. Thursday 5th, Friday 6th, and Saturday 7th December, 1895.
A booklet measuring 17 x 22 cm, with 80 pages of text, illustrations and advertising printed throughout.
THE OBJECT OF THE BAZAAR to raise the sum of £1500 to clear off the remainder of the debt incurred by “Mother Kilwinning” in rebuilding their Lodge.
The new building has been erected on a site adjoining the did Lodge, presented by Lord Eglinton, and was consecrated to Masonry on 30th September, 1893.
The Old Lodge was built in the year 1779, and after having been the home of Scotland’s Mother Lodge for 114 years, it was found necessary, owing to its unsafe condition, either to repair it or build a New Lodge. Hence the new building.
Nearly £2000 have been spent in the erection and furnishing of the building, and j£$oo have already been subscribed by the Brethren towards the cost.
The Members of the Lodge now appeal to the Freemasons of Scotland, and their friends, to assist them in relieving. “Mother Kilwinning” of this debt, and they are confident that they will not appeal in vain.
Adverts throughout the booklet feature those traders at the bazaar…
There are also portraits of some of the members…
And their wives who were assisting on stalls…
It also includes: “History of Mother Lodge, Kilwinning. ‘Mother Kilwinning,’ by the Rev. William Lee Ker, M.A., Chaplain” on pp. 11-34 – we will be featuring the full transcription in next month’s edition.
Article by: Philippa Lee. Editor
Philippa Lee (writes as Philippa Faulks) is the author of eight books, an editor and researcher.
Philippa was initiated into the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons (HFAF) in 2014.
Her specialism is ancient Egypt, Freemasonry, comparative religions and social history. She has several books in progress on the subject of ancient and modern Egypt. Selection of Books Online at Amazon
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