Lodge History

The earliest records of Lodge St George No. 190 show that the Lodge was certainly well established by 1792, the Lodge’s oldest record being a handwritten cash book containing entries which show that the Lodge was indeed a Friendly Society. The book also acts as a Petition Book, showing details of members and how much they had to pay to join (2/6). Many of the members were white fishermen or attached in some way to the sea, weavers, dyers and combers from the cloth industry, grave diggers and constables. Some are simply Entered a Gentleman. Presumably they did not have to work. The Lodge not only worked the degrees which are authorized today but worked up to the 16º. With the implementation of the Secret Societies Act looming the Grand Lodge of Scotland had to ensure that all Lodges were registered properly and acting within the Laws of the time. This meant that not only had Lodge Saint George to stop working all these degrees but also had to apply for a Charter. This was duly done, being sponsored by Lodges St James, No. 168 and St Luke, No. 143 at whose premises in Mutton Brae the Lodge met. Lodge Saint George was Chartered by the Grand Lodge of Scotland in 1794 and given the Roll Number of 254 this was eventually changed to the present Number of 190. It is of interest that because of this event St. George Royal Arch Chapter No. 21 and St George Aboyne Preceptory of Knights Templar No. 1 were formed. At the Consecration of the Aberdeen Masonic Temple in 1911 the Throne used was that of Lodge Saint George. The date carved on the chair being 1792. Since its inception the Lodge has been heavily involved in the life of Aberdeen City, raising considerable amounts of money over the centuries for various charitable enterprises in the City especially for all of the various public hospitals. Its membership still comprises of men from all walks of life and new members are always made very welcome.