Consecrated 6th October 1866
Consecrated 6th October 1866
Short History
As can be seen from the Lodge Banner, the history of Shirley Lodge is both long and varied. Showing the combined crests of the New Forest and Southampton City, as well as the original different name.
This reflects the move from “The Greyhound Hotel”, Fordingbridge in the New Forest at it’s inception as The Vale of Avon Lodge in 1866, to the “Masonic Hall”, in Oxford Street, (now Malborough Road), Shirley, a part of Southampton in 1875.
In 1876, the move was confirmed, with the change of name to “Shirley Lodge” being adopted. However, the name on the Warrant has never been altered, but was amended only in 1950 to avoid possible complications.
One further move took place in 1895 when in order to improve the meeting place, all subsequent Meetings of the Lodge ever since, have taken place at the Masonic Hall, Albion Place, Southampton.
In the nearly 140 years of it’s existence, Shirley Lodge has past through many of the major events of English history during that time and also seen many changes in membership.
In 1966 the Centenary Handbook, it was written that the history of the Lodge
might be divided into three distinct periods, i.e.
1866 - 1875, the years spent at Fordingbridge, being “years of struggle”
1875 – 1895, the years at Oxford Street, Shirley, being “years of endurance”
1895 – 1966, the years at Albion Place, Southampton, being “years of progress”.
In common with many other Lodges, the last 20 or so years have once again become more difficult, with a gradual reduction in Membership. There are many reasons for this, perhaps relating to changes in the social structure of the nation and the public esteem of Freemasonry. However, history may show these later years as being “years of consolidation and trial”.
Today
One aspect that has not changed is the pride taken in maintaining the standard of our ceremonies.
The Lodge currently enjoys an active social calendar, with annual Lunches, Ladies Festivals and Carol Evenings. Also Masonic visits to other countries have been arranged for a number of years.
Since 1902, Meetings have always been held on the first Monday in the months of September to April inclusive, and the first Thursday of May. Visits by Masonic brethren are actively welcomed.
For visits or information contact :-