A BRIEF HISTORY

When history of the twentieth century is written, the 1930's will probably figure as one of the most momentous decades of that period.

In 1932 Adolf Hitler had been appointed Chancellor of Germany, succeeding Hindenburg, the aged veteran of the 1914-1918 war. Happily the impending tragedies did not hamper the progress of freemasonry and on the 30th January 1934, Worshipful Brother Arthur Foster, P G D, presided as consecrating officer at the birth of Winckley Lodge No 5438 at the Bull and Royal Hotel Preston, sponsored by that fine old Lodge of Unanimity No 113.

In the early 1940's it had become evident that Preston Masonry needed a permanent abode. The number of lodges had increased and there had, therefore, been a large influx of new members to the Craft.

After consideration of various sites, the Methodist Chapel in Saul Street was purchased and adapted gradually for Masonic use. Members of Winckley Lodge played their part in this venture and finally the first meeting of the Lodge took place in September 1944.

Many diverse, but excellent men, have played their part in the history of Winckley Lodge, too numerous to mention, but a few warrant particular attention. Of these
W Bro Brother George Guy, a devoted and indefatigable man, who had lived to the great age of ninety-four, was an inspiration. He served Masonry for well over fifty years and fittingly was accorded Grand Lodge Honours in May 1949, the first member of the Lodge to gain that distinction.

A notable figure that played a large part in the development of the Lodge was W Bro Teddy Pickering, as he was known. A gentle self-effacing man, a wise man in his counsel and a father figure to junior brethren. He was in every way a vintage mason and in the early days, he accepted many offices and filled them all with distinction.

W Bro Frank Horsburgh was generous in every way to the Lodge and much of the furniture and ornaments that the Lodge possesses can be traced back to him.

A never to be forgotten figure of the Lodge was W Bro George Bath, he served Masonry for fifty-four years and died a few days before his hundredth birthday.

The longest serving member of Winckley Lodge is W Bro J N Allan, P Pr J G W who has recently celebrated sixty years in the Lodge and is affectionately known as the Father of the Lodge.

April 2003