Beaconsfield Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners, No.205
Centenary Meeting, 7th May 2019 

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​​   It seemed like one hundred years in the planning, but, after a genuine 100 years of existence, the Beaconsfield Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners, No. 205 celebrated its Centenary Meeting at Saxon Hall, Southend on Sea, Essex. 

   The meeting was held in the presence of our Provincial Grand Master, R.W.Bro. Terence D. Sheern, escorted by his Prov.GDC, W.Bro. John Finlay and accompanied by a significant  number of Provincial Officers which included both of the Provincial Wardens. Additionally, we were honoured with the presence of the Assistant Grand Master, R.W.Bro. Stephen Davison, escorted by the Dep. GDC, W.Bro.  Matthew Hampson and accompanied by the Asst to the Grand Secretary, Bro. Paul Merryfellow. There were also a large number of guests, not least our Past PGM, RWBro Michael Spencer and a Past APGM, W.Bro. Bob Potts as well as many others, not only from our "sister". Southend Lodges, but from all around the Province too.

   The meeting started and, subsequently with our PGM enterd, took the Commanders Chair and addressed the Brethren on the purpose of the meeting, a little of the history of Beaconsfield and some historical facts. The AsstGM then entered, took the chair from the PGM and addressed us further before asking the Asst to the GSec to read both the original and the Centenary Warrant. Members of the Lodge then lined up to receive their Centenary Jewels which were presented to them. 

   The Lodge Commander, W.Bro. David Garston then went on to Install the  Commander Elect, Bro. Martyn Pinkney, with W.Bros. Baum, Caldwell and Jacobs assisting meaning that the four longest serving Brethren were, once again, taking an active part in the Lodge's history.
Brother Martyn was Installed in a faultless Ceremony from W.Bro. David. Finally, with all his officers appointed and invested, the Lodge was delighted that the PGM delivered the Address to the Commander. We also had two Grand Lodge Certificates to be presented, which the AsstGM graciously agreed to do to the delight of our two newest Brethren, Brothers Ronnie Schwartz and Mike Pearsons. 
   As a final, unexpected, act, Beaconsfield Lodge were pleased to confirm Honorary Member status on the Asst GM, Stephen Davison; our Provincial Grand Master,  Terry Sheern and, as a testament to his previous service, the Past PGM, Michael Spencer. 

   With the Lodge business finally closed, everyone retired to a fine festive in the Jubilee Suite. Below are a selection of  photographs taken on the night. Prints are available if required.

   Just as a slight "daily advancement", if you are planning a Centenary, some sage advice: start two years earlier than you planned, save twice as much money as you think you need and, finally, find a good Asst Scribe who will research the history for you! 
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