Since its inception, there have been 25 Provincial Grand Maser Masons in the Province of Aberdeenshire East, to view the Roll of Honour click here
A Brief History of The Provincial Grand Lodge of Aberdeenshire East
The Provincial Grand Lodge of Aberdeenshire East was established in 1834 under the auspices of the Grand Lodge of Scotland. Since its inception, it has played a pivotal role in overseeing and supporting the Masonic lodges within its jurisdiction, ensuring adherence to Masonic principles and fostering unity among its members.
The province currently encompasses 15 lodges, with the most recent addition being Lodge St. Columban No. 1858, chartered in 2024. This expansion signifies the enduring appeal and growth of Freemasonry in the region.
Throughout its history, the Provincial Grand Lodge of Aberdeenshire East has been instrumental in the consecration of new lodges. A notable example is The Fraserburgh Lodge of Freemasons No. 1055, established in 1910. The consecration ceremony was conducted by the Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, Provost W.H. Leask, with representatives from every lodge in the province attending. Such events highlight the Provincial Grand Lodge’s commitment to expanding Masonic influence and fostering brotherhood among its members.
The Provincial Grand Lodge also plays a crucial role in maintaining the traditions and practices of Freemasonry. For instance, during a special meeting in 1910, the Right Honourable Lord Saltoun, Past Grand Master Mason of Scotland, attended and praised the lodge for its exemplary conduct of a Third Degree ceremony. He expressed his willingness to support the lodge, reflecting the strong bonds and mutual respect fostered within the Masonic community.
In summary, since its foundation in 1834, the Provincial Grand Lodge of Aberdeenshire East has been a cornerstone of Freemasonry in the region, guiding and supporting its constituent lodges, upholding Masonic traditions, and fostering a spirit of unity and brotherhood among its members.
The Origins of Freemaonary
Freemasonry traces its origins to the medieval stonemason guilds that were responsible for constructing cathedrals, castles, and other grand structures across Europe. These guilds, often referred to as “operative masons,” functioned as early trade organisations, where members shared technical knowledge, upheld high standards of craftsmanship, and protected trade secrets.
Over time, as the demand for large-scale stone construction declined, these guilds began admitting honorary members who were not stonemasons but were interested in the philosophical and moral teachings associated with the craft. This shift gave rise to “speculative Masonry,” the foundation of modern Freemasonry. By the 17th and 18th centuries, Freemasonry had evolved into a fraternal organisation focused on moral development, self-improvement, and charitable endeavors rather than actual stone-cutting.
Many elements of modern Freemasonry – such as the use of symbolic tools (compasses, square, trowel), ritual ceremonies, and the structure of lodges – can be traced directly to the medieval guilds. Additionally, principles like mentorship, hierarchical progression through degrees, and a commitment to ethical conduct have been carried forward from the operative masons to today’s speculative Masonic lodges.
Thus, while modern Freemasonry no longer involves the building of physical structures, it continues the traditions of its guild predecessors by constructing a framework for personal growth, mutual support, and community service.
The Age of Enlightenment
Some have referred to the 18th century as the age of Freemasonry. It was certainly the age of Fraternalism with many new organisations promoting mutual aid and encouragement. The 18th century was very much a time of change, the age of ‘Enlightenment’. With this change, however, came revolution. Some Freemasons on the continent became even more secretive than previously to escape the effects of persecution from the authorities. Handshakes and other modes of recognition which had been used by the trade crafts to identify each other became even more important as did the ideals of equality and fraternity.
Many historical Enlightenment figures were Freemasons who became involved on both sides of the Jacobite uprisings and on both sides of the French and American revolutions. Robert Burns became a freemason in 1781, age 22. Marie Roberts, in “Burns and the Masonic Enlightenment” states that Freemasonry not only spoke out for the ideals of ‘liberty, fraternity, equality’, but was also responsible for the creation of nationalistic feelings and fervour, as a number of Freemasons played prominent roles in the American and French Revolutions.
An Original Perspective
The Grand Master of the Scottish Constitution bears the unique title Grand Master Mason, an office which has been held by distinguished members of Scottish society.
Unlike other regular Masonic jurisdictions, all members, of whatever rank, are addressed simply as “Brother”. The usual and more complex masonic titles are used in Scotland, but attach to the office, not the individual. This differentiates Scottish Freemasonry from much of the other traditions and keeps to the true teaching of the Fraternity and being on the level.
Lodges under the Scottish Constitution are sovereign bodies in their own right, with a considerable degree of control over their own affairs. Many Lodges pre-existed Grand Lodge, all zealously guarding their traditions, and were permitted to retain their own procedures, regalia, and distinctive rituals. Having accepted the principle of independence of old Lodges, it was impossible to deny Lodges founded after 1736 the same level of independence. Of course the rituals must contain the principal points of each degree, but the scope for elaboration is considerable, with numerous interesting variations.
Since Scottish Lodges have the right to choose the colours of the Lodge regalia, meetings are very colourful, especially if visitors from other Lodges are present.
Today, Scottish Freemasonry continues to flourish and grow, offering a unique and original perspective on Freemasonry that has survived for over 400 years.
Benjamin Franklin’s Masonic Legacy:
Enlightenment, Brotherhood, and Influence
Benjamin Franklin, one of the most iconic figures of early American history, is widely remembered as a polymath—an inventor, writer, diplomat, and statesman. Yet an equally important aspect of Franklin’s life, though often less discussed, was his deep involvement with Freemasonry. As a prominent Freemason, Franklin played a significant role in shaping the philosophical and civic landscape of colonial America through the values and networks fostered by the Masonic brotherhood.
Initiation into Freemasonry
Franklin was initiated into Freemasonry in 1731, at the age of 25, at St. John’s Lodge in Philadelphia. At the time, Freemasonry was gaining ground in the American colonies as a society rooted in Enlightenment ideals—reason, tolerance, fraternity, and moral uprightness. These principles aligned closely with Franklin’s own intellectual pursuits and progressive beliefs.
By 1734, Franklin’s rapid rise in the Masonic ranks led him to become the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, the highest position in the state’s Masonic hierarchy. That same year, he published the first Masonic book in America, The Constitutions of the Free-Masons, an American reprint of James Anderson’s British original. This publication marked Franklin as not only a leader within the fraternity but also one of its earliest public advocates in the New World.
The Philosophical Fit
Freemasonry and Franklin were a natural match. The Masonic emphasis on personal improvement, civic virtue, and rational inquiry resonated deeply with Franklin’s Enlightenment spirit. He embraced the Masonic ideal of building a better self to build a better society—a sentiment mirrored in his own writings, such as his famous “13 Virtues,” a self-improvement program he rigorously followed.
The Lodge also provided a space for intellectual exchange and fellowship, transcending class and religion—values that Franklin cherished. Masonic lodges of the time often served as incubators for revolutionary thought and civic initiatives, making them vital nodes in the broader cultural and political life of the colonies.
Masonic Ties Abroad
Franklin’s Masonic involvement extended beyond American shores. During his diplomatic missions to Europe, particularly in France, Franklin connected with foreign Masonic lodges. In Paris, he became affiliated with the Lodge of the Nine Sisters (La Loge des Neuf Sœurs), a hub for intellectuals, artists, and political thinkers. He was elected Venerable Master (Worshipful Master) of the lodge in 1779, further demonstrating his influence in the transatlantic Masonic community.
Through these ties, Franklin cultivated relationships with influential Enlightenment figures and thinkers—such as Voltaire, who himself was initiated into Franklin’s lodge shortly before his death. These networks were instrumental in rallying support for the American Revolution and advancing Franklin’s diplomatic goals.
Legacy and Reflection
Franklin’s Masonic affiliation was more than symbolic—it was integral to his identity and to the shaping of early American civic culture. His life exemplified Masonic virtues: dedication to self-betterment, commitment to education and public service, and belief in the power of rational thought and brotherhood.
Even in his later years, Franklin remained engaged with Freemasonry. His funeral in 1790 was attended by members of the fraternity, and Masonic honors were paid in his memory. To this day, many Masonic lodges regard him as a model Freemason and a shining example of Enlightenment values in action.
Conclusion
Benjamin Franklin’s Masonic journey reflects the broader role Freemasonry played in the American Enlightenment and the founding of the United States. Through the fraternity, Franklin found a community that nurtured his ideals and amplified his influence. In turn, he helped shape the identity and mission of American Freemasonry, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire both Masons and historians alike.
George Washington and His Masonic Career:
The Founding Father and the Craft
Did you know that George Washington was initiated into Freemasonry in 1752 at the Fredericksburg Lodge No. 4 in Virginia? This Lodge later received its Warrant from The Grand Lodge of Scotland in 1758, cementing its connection to Scottish Freemasonry. Washington’s Masonic values of justice, loyalty, and freedom played a significant role in shaping his leadership and vision for the nation. He even took his presidential oath on a Masonic Bible!
But Washington’s connection to the Craft ran far deeper than ceremonial symbolism or personal ideals—it was a lifelong affiliation that subtly influenced his public conduct, private beliefs, and even the architecture of the young American republic.
Initiation into the Craft: 1752
At the age of 20, George Washington was initiated as an Entered Apprentice on November 4, 1752. His initiation took place at Fredericksburg Lodge in Virginia, one of the earliest Masonic lodges in the American colonies. He progressed to the degree of Fellowcraft in March 1753 and was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason in August of that same year.
What stands out about Washington’s early Masonic experience is the timing—it occurred just before his military and political rise. The fraternity’s ideals of moral rectitude, personal discipline, and universal brotherhood may have appealed to the young Virginian as he prepared to take on leadership roles in the colonial militia and, eventually, on the national stage.
George Washington
The Scottish Connection
Fredericksburg Lodge’s official charter came from the Grand Lodge of Scotland in 1758. This Scottish lineage is more than a historical footnote. It symbolized the transatlantic reach of Freemasonry and embedded Washington’s Masonic foundation within the broader framework of Enlightenment-era ideals spreading from Europe to the New World. Scottish Freemasonry, with its emphasis on philosophical inquiry, liberty of conscience, and civic responsibility, harmonized perfectly with the ideals Washington would come to embody as a revolutionary leader and president.
Freemasonry and Revolutionary Ideals
Throughout the American Revolution, Freemasonry played a quiet but influential role. While the Masonic lodge did not direct revolutionary activity, many of the movement’s leaders—including Benjamin Franklin, Paul Revere, and John Hancock—were Masons. The fraternity’s teachings on equality, self-governance, and fraternity undoubtedly helped nurture the democratic ideals fermenting in the colonies.
Washington himself viewed the Craft as a stabilizing moral force during turbulent times. His Masonic values shaped his interactions with fellow officers, his refusal to seize power after the war, and his commitment to building a just and inclusive political order. Masonic principles encouraged deliberation over demagoguery, and cooperation over tyranny—precisely the traits that distinguished Washington’s leadership.
The Masonic Bible and the First Inauguration
When George Washington took the first presidential oath of office on April 30, 1789, he requested a Bible for the ceremony. The only one readily available belonged to St. John’s Lodge No. 1 of New York City—a Masonic lodge. Washington placed his hand upon this Bible as he took the oath, a symbolic gesture that echoed his spiritual and philosophical roots.
To this day, that Masonic Bible remains a cherished artifact, used in subsequent inaugurations, including those of Presidents Harding, Eisenhower, Carter, and George H. W. Bush. It underscores how deeply the ideals of Freemasonry were embedded in the foundation of American civil religion and governance.
Washington’s Ongoing Relationship with the Craft
Although George Washington did not regularly attend lodge meetings later in life—largely due to the demands of his public duties—he maintained strong correspondence with various lodges, including his home lodge in Virginia and the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. He often expressed support for the fraternity’s role in promoting civic virtue and moral education.
In 1791, while on a tour of the southern states, Washington laid the cornerstone of the U.S. Capitol in a full Masonic ritual, wearing regalia presented by Alexandria Lodge No. 22, of which he was an honorary member. This event symbolized the deep bond between Masonry and the nascent American republic—a republic whose foundation stones were laid with both mortar and Masonic principle.
Legacy: The Father of His Country and Brother of the Craft
Today, George Washington is remembered not only as the Father of His Country but also as the most venerated American Freemason. His likeness is featured in Masonic lodges across the country, and the George Washington Masonic National Memorial in Alexandria, Virginia, stands as a testament to his enduring influence within the Craft.
Far from being a secretive or shadowy part of his life, Freemasonry was a well-known and respected aspect of Washington’s public identity. It reinforced the Enlightenment values of reason, morality, and liberty that he championed, and it provided a network of like-minded individuals committed to the ideals of a just and harmonious society.
Robert Burns
‘That Man to Man the warld o’er, Shall brithers be for a’ that’
Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet, was not only a literary icon but also a devoted Freemason. Born in 1759, Burns became widely celebrated for his poetry and songs that captured the essence of Scottish life, love, and social justice. His deep connection to Freemasonry profoundly influenced his work and helped cement his legacy among Masons worldwide.
Burns was initiated into Freemasonry in 1781 at Lodge St. David, Tarbolton, at the age of 22. The values of fraternity, equality, and brotherhood that he encountered in the lodge resonated deeply with his own beliefs. His poetry often reflected Masonic ideals, promoting unity, moral integrity, and the dignity of all people.
One of Burns’ most famous Masonic poems, A Man’s a Man for A’ That, embodies the spirit of equality and brotherhood that Freemasonry upholds. His works were celebrated within Masonic circles, and he was often honored at lodge gatherings. In recognition of his literary genius and dedication to the craft, Burns was named Poet Laureate of Lodge Canongate Kilwinning No. 2 in Edinburgh.
To this day, Freemasons across the world continue to honor Burns’ legacy. Burns Suppers, held annually on January 25th, celebrate his life, poetry, and Masonic contributions. His influence remains strong, reminding Masons of the timeless principles of fraternity, equality, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Robert Burns’ enduring words and Masonic spirit continue to inspire not only Freemasons but all those who cherish freedom, integrity, and the power of poetry.
Grand Lodge of Scotland – A Few Points of Historic Interest
The First Grand Master Mason and the Birth of the Grand Lodge of Scotland
In 1736, the foundation of Scottish Freemasonry was firmly established with the election of the first Grand Master Mason, William St Clair of Roslin. His leadership played a pivotal role in the creation of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, an institution that would go on to shape Freemasonry in the country and beyond.
Before 1736, Scottish lodges operated independently, with no central governing body to oversee Masonic traditions and practices. Recognizing the need for unity, a gathering of representatives from various lodges convened in Edinburgh. At this historic meeting, they elected William St Clair, a man of noble lineage with strong ties to Freemasonry. St Clair’s family had long been associated with Scottish stonemasons, and he was widely respected for his dedication to the craft.
Upon his election, St Clair voluntarily renounced any hereditary claims over Scottish lodges, ensuring that Freemasonry in Scotland would be governed democratically. This act helped establish the Grand Lodge of Scotland as an institution rooted in collective leadership rather than lineage. His efforts laid the foundation for a structured and unified Masonic body that continues to oversee Scottish Freemasonry to this day.
St Clair’s tenure as Grand Master Mason was brief, but his influence was lasting. Under his leadership, the Grand Lodge of Scotland was officially constituted, bringing together numerous independent lodges under a single governing authority. His vision and commitment ensured the stability and growth of Scottish Freemasonry, securing its place in the broader Masonic tradition.
To this day, William St Clair of Roslin is remembered as a key figure in the history of Freemasonry, whose leadership helped unify Scottish lodges and establish a lasting legacy for the Grand Lodge of Scotland.
William St Clair of Roslin
The Duke of York and His Affiliation with Scottish Freemasonry
The history of British royalty and Freemasonry is a long and intertwined one, with several monarchs and members of the royal family having been involved in the organization. Among them, King George VI, formerly known as the Duke of York, holds a unique place in the history of Scottish Freemasonry. His brief but significant tenure as Scotland’s Grand Master Mason in 1936 exemplifies the deep-rooted connections between the monarchy and the Masonic tradition.
King George VI
The Affiliation into Scottish Freemasonry
On the 2nd of June 1936, the Duke of York was formally affiliated into Scottish Freemasonry in a ceremony held at the Masonic Hall in Glamis, a small village in Scotland. Glamis is historically significant as the home of Glamis Castle, the ancestral seat of the Bowes-Lyon family, to which his wife, Elizabeth (later known as the Queen Mother), belonged. The ceremony marked an important milestone in his Masonic journey, strengthening his ties with Scottish Freemasonry and reinforcing the royal patronage of the institution.
Installation as Scotland’s Grand Master Mason
Just a few months later, on the 1st of December 1936, the Duke of York was installed as Scotland’s Grand Master Mason in a grand ceremony at the Usher Hall in Edinburgh. This event was attended by approximately 2,500 Freemasons from across Scotland, showcasing the prestige and importance of his appointment. The role of the Grand Master Mason is the highest Masonic office in Scotland, symbolizing leadership and commitment to the principles of the fraternity.
However, his tenure as Grand Master Mason was notably short-lived. Just ten days after his installation, on the 11th of December 1936, his older brother, King Edward VIII, abdicated the throne to marry Wallis Simpson, an event that sent shockwaves through the British monarchy. This unexpected turn of events led to the Duke of York ascending the throne as King George VI.
Resignation from Freemasonic Duties
Upon his ascension to the throne, King George VI was required to relinquish his role as Scotland’s Grand Master Mason. It is a longstanding tradition that a reigning British monarch does not hold a Masonic office, in order to maintain neutrality and distance from formal affiliations with any organization. Consequently, his tenure as Grand Master Mason lasted a mere ten days, making it one of the shortest in the history of Scottish Freemasonry.
Legacy and Influence on Freemasonry
Despite his brief tenure, King George VI’s involvement in Freemasonry left a lasting impression on the organization. His affiliation with Scottish Freemasonry highlighted the continued royal endorsement of the institution and reinforced its cultural and historical significance in Britain. His commitment to service, both within Freemasonry and later as a wartime king, exemplified the values of duty, honor, and leadership that the fraternity upholds.
Moreover, his time as a Freemason is often regarded as an extension of his deep personal connections with Scotland, through both his marriage to Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon and his own interest in Scottish traditions. While his official role within Freemasonry ended with his ascension to the throne, the royal family’s association with the Masonic order continued through other members over the years.
The Role of Lord Bruce in Scottish Freemasonry
Another key figure in Scottish Freemasonry was Lord Bruce, also known as Andrew Douglas Alexander Thomas Bruce, the 11th Earl of Elgin. He served as the Grand Master Mason of the Grand Lodge of Scotland from 1961 to 1965, a period marked by significant Masonic activity and engagement. As the head of Scottish Freemasonry, Lord Bruce played a crucial role in upholding the traditions of the institution while also adapting it to the changing social landscape of the time.
Lord Bruce’s Influence and Contributions
During his tenure as Grand Master Mason, Lord Bruce was known for his dedication to promoting Freemasonry’s core values of fraternity, charity, and moral integrity. His leadership was characterized by efforts to strengthen the unity of Scottish Freemasonry and foster connections with other Masonic jurisdictions worldwide. Under his guidance, the Grand Lodge of Scotland continued its charitable endeavors, supporting various social and community initiatives.
As a member of the Bruce family, which has deep historical ties to Scotland, Lord Bruce’s leadership carried a sense of heritage and tradition. His role as Grand Master Mason reflected the enduring influence of aristocratic figures in Scottish Freemasonry and their commitment to its principles.
Legacy of Lord Bruce in Freemasonry
Lord Bruce’s impact on Scottish Freemasonry extended beyond his time in office. His tenure contributed to the stability and growth of the organization, ensuring that its principles remained relevant in the modern era. His leadership reinforced the idea that Freemasonry was not only about ritual and tradition but also about contributing to society in meaningful ways.
Even after his term as Grand Master Mason ended in 1965, Lord Bruce remained an influential figure within Masonic circles. His involvement exemplified the continued participation of Scottish nobility in Freemasonry, maintaining a link between historical aristocratic leadership and the fraternal order’s mission.
The Rt Hon The Earl of Elgin and Kincardine, KT
Conclusion
The contributions of both King George VI and Lord Bruce to Scottish Freemasonry highlight the institution’s longstanding connections with nobility and the monarchy. While King George VI’s tenure as Grand Master Mason was brief due to his ascension to the throne, Lord Bruce’s leadership from 1961 to 1965 represented a period of continuity and dedication to Masonic principles. Their respective roles underscore the significant influence of high-profile figures in shaping the history and legacy of Scottish Freemasonry.
Grand Master Mason – Brother W. Ramsay McGhee
More Recent History
In recent developments within Scottish Freemasonry, the Grand Lodge of Scotland experienced a significant leadership change. The Grand Master Mason, Rev Canon Dr. Joseph J. Morrow, unexpectedly resigned in September 2024, less than a year into his term.
Following Dr. Morrow’s resignation, Immediate Past Grand Master, Brother William Ramsay McGhee, assumed interim leadership. Brother McGhee, initiated into Lodge St. Barchan, No. 156, in 1969, has held various positions within the organisation, including Grand Director of Ceremonies and Depute Grand Master. His extensive experience and previous tenure as Grand Master Mason from 2018 to 2023 provide stability during this transitional period.
The Grand Lodge of Scotland is supported by a dedicated team of elected and appointed Office-bearers, each bringing unique skills and experience to the leadership. The Governance and Strategy Board, responsible for setting the strategic vision, includes members such as Alexander C. G. Moncrieff (Depute Grand Master), David A. Reid (Substitute Grand Master), and William M.S. Semple (Grand Secretary). This collective leadership ensures the organization’s commitment to its principles and community engagement.
As the Grand Lodge navigates this period of change, the collective efforts of its leadership and members aim to uphold the traditions of Freemasonry while embracing opportunities for growth and modernisation.
Contact the Provincial Grand Secretary
Alexander Burgess
4 Broomhill
Fraserburgh
AB43 9TU
Tel: 07547 624835
email:[email protected]