A memorable and very happy event took place at Kimbolton Castle on Saturday 31st August 2024, when the Old Kimboltonians' Lodge No. 7204 had the honour of hosting the 76th Annual Festival of the Federation of School Lodges.
In addition, The Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Mark Constant was elected President of the Federation for the next 3 years during the Annual Business Meeting.
This is a significant honour with retiring President , RWBro Sir David Wootton PDGM and 2nd GP travelling a few days earlier to personally pass on the Presidents Colleret and Gavel as reported in a previous article.
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During the Business Meeting it is a tradition to announce the next School Lodge to hold the 'Travelling Gavel' at the start of the new year and based on their number of attendees, this was awarded to the Old Wellingburian Lodge No.5570 as photographed below.
A short Emergency meeting was then held by the Old Kimboltons' Lodge under the direction of Worshipful Master Robert Turner LGR and during a period when the lodge was 'called off', a fascinating talk was given by Mr Andrew Bamford, Curator of Kimbolton School and a former Head of History, entitled 'The Last Residence of Queen Kathrine of Aragon', which was very well received.
Old Kimboltonians' Secretary WBro Martin Wilson said, 'The whole day went very well due to the hard work and organisation of many and I would also acknowledged the assistance provided by members of the Palmer Lodge of Provincial Grand Stewards No. 8995 which was greatly appreciated'.
At the Festive Board, Federation President RWBro Mark Constant and WM Robert Turner both thanked everyone for attending and helping to make the afternoon so special. In particular they thanked Mr Andrew Bamford for his wonderful talk recognising the unique history of the Castle and also Mr Sam Venn who attended on behalf of the school in support.
Over 120 brethren and visitors from representing over 63 Federation (or other) School Lodges or Chapters attended a magnificent occasion in wonderful surroundings from as far afield as the Isle of Mann and next years hosts, Dover.
A great time was had by all and our photograph below shows OK's Secretary Martin Wilson (front left) with a group of Bedfordshire masons from Old Bedford Modernians and other schools led by their PGM RWBro. Nick Edwards (front right) all celebrating a most memorable day.
More photographs are available by clicking on the following gallery link:
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