Freemasonry in Argyll, Bute and Arran, Scotland
Brother John Stewart was installed as Provincial Grand Master of Argyll and the Isles in the Argyll Gathering Halls in Oban on Saturday, 23 September, by the Grand Master Mason, Brother W. Ramsay McGhee.
All photos by Brother Andrew Hamilton, Master of Lodge Lochindaal No 1592, with Permission
Lodge St Modan, No 985 got 2020 off to a fantastic start with a huge attendance from within and outwith the province, to witness the Installation of Master Elect, Bro., Alan Bruce MacLeod and office-bearers. Depute Provincial Grand Master, Bro., Kenneth Harvey, was on hand to offer the congratulations and best wishes of PGL, to the new RWM.
The DPGM paid tribute to the great ceremony performed within the confines of a crowded Lodge, by Installing Masters, Bro’s Robert Cruickshanks, Iain Alexander, and Hamish Emslie also warmly welcomed all visitors to the province, thanking the PGM, Douglas Philand, for the privilege of leading the deputation.
There was a massive attendance at the recent Installation of Master Kenneth Pearson of the Oban Commercial Lodge, No 180. However it was also to prove a very special day for one unsuspecting brother, quietly watching proceedings of his 51st successive installation of his own lodge. Addressing the brethren, PGL Representative, Substitute PGM, John Stewart, asked PG Secretary Jimmy McCallum to read a presentation from the Grand Lodge of Scotland and Provincial Grand Lodge, awarding the Honorary Rank of Substitute PGM to Bro. Neil Horne in recognition of 8 years’ service as PG Chaplain and 10 years as PG Secretary.
Much to everyone’s relief Neil accepted this fine accolade and, after the Obligation, was congratulated with glowing words of tribute by PGM Douglas Philand, SPGM John Stewart and IPPGM Kenneth R. Johnson.
The PGM also wishes to extend grateful appreciation to the newly installed RWM Pearson, office-bearers and all brethren present, for allowing the PGL, to intrude upon a wonderful day and perform this special duty for Bro. Horne.
Some pictures of recent installation of RWM, Allan MacDonald, Lodge Tarbert, Tarbert Lochfyne, No 1306. The PGM, Douglas Philand, was present to congratulate the RWM and Office-bearers, as well as Installing Masters Charles Nicolson and Matthew MacMillan for a good job, well done and wished the brethren a very happy year to come.
Saturday, 23rd, Nov, 2019, saw a huge turnout of brethren from all points of the compass, near and far, at the Oban Commercial Lodge No.180, for the annual installation of new Master, Br., Kenneth Pearson and his office-bearers, as well as the chance to congratulate IPM, Archie MacCulloch on his fine work and leadership of the Lodge over the past two years. In a sometimes emotional ceremony, the RWM, was installed by his father, Bro. Tam Pearson in a most dignified manner, with the occasional moments of light hearted, subtle humour. There were at 16 reigning masters and upwards of 30 PMs in the IB. Bro. Pearson was most ably assisted by PM Sandy MacLeod and Kenneth Stewart, installing the new office-bearers into their respective offices.
The afternoon also saw PM Neil Horne accorded the great honour of being presented with the Honorary PGL rank of Substitute PGM by reigning PGM, Bro. Douglas T. Philand and PGL Rep for the day, SPGM, John Stewart, while Bro. Donald Malloch was presented with a gift in recognition of his sterling service as Substitute Master over the years.
A great festive board then ensued with many fine speeches, toasts, refreshment and music. The new RWM said he was delighted to see several members return to the Lodge for the first time in a while. Likewise, he expressed appreciation to everyone who made the effort to come along. A great day was had by all. Special thanks to the Installing Masters and Archie MacCulloch for organizing everything. Also, thanks to Colin and Scott for the 1st class meal and the stewards who served it and for dealing with the high increase in numbers so well. Thanks also to Br. Grant H. Nicholson, for the photos!
