History

Overview

In November 2009 Lodge St. Barchan celebrated its 225th Anniversary, with the ceremony of re-dedication being carried out by the Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East, headed on this occasion by Bro. David Reid, Provincial Grand Master.

Prior to the Lodge celebrating its Bicentenary in 1984, a Committee of Past Masters, Office Bearers and Brethren of the Lodge, headed by Past Master Dennis McCormack was formed to draw together as much information as possible relating to the history of Lodge St. Barchan. In 1984, this was published as part of the Lodge's Bicentennial celebrations. It was then retyped and re-formatted by Past Master Alan Struthers for publication on the website.

If there are any Past Masters, Office Bearers, Brethren or indeed anyone else out there who feel they have material (written, pictorial or simply anecdotal) relating to Lodge St. Barchan which they feel is worthy of inclusion on the site don't hesitate to get in touch.

As noted above, the brethren of Lodge St. Barchan worked hard to bring together the history of the Lodge. Any errors or omissions made in preparing the information for publication on the website are mine not theirs. (E Findlay, 2025)

1784 - 1799

This extract is taken from the first Minute Book of the Lodge. This entry was made on the 29th of November 1784 by the Lodge Secretary James Houston.

"We the members of the St Barchan Lodge No.208 upon receiving our Charter of Constitution and Erection from the Grand Lodge of Scotland, having met in the house of John Laing, (Innkeeper) to deliberate upon further measures to be taken concerning the Lodge, we hereby unanimously agree to postpone this meeting until the 30th of November when we shall meet again and have our by laws made out and signed by the first promoters of the same lodge."
The following short entry was made on the 30th of November 1784:

"Having met agreeable to our past adjournment we proceed accordingly to the making of our by-laws and sign them immediately."

The founder members of Lodge St Barchan No.208 (soon to be 156) were:

Of these brethren, Brother James Houston undertook the duties of Master and Secretary. The Earl Buchan Grand Master Mason of Scotland had signed the charter and thus in the house of an Innkeeper, Lodge St, Barchan was born. By 17th December of that year the minute shows that the Master, Wardens and Office Bearers were unanimously elected.

The first meeting of Lodge St. Barchan took place on the 1st of December 1784. The following extract from the minute references first Master Masons being admitted as members of the Lodge.

"By order of the Master a meeting being called and having met, the Master being in the chair. The following brethren all Master Masons and weavers in Kilbarchan were admitted as worthy members of this lodge, John Laing, Ian Erskine, Crawford Robert Young, James Nolones and Peter Ramsay."

In addition James Aitken, was initiated as the first E.A. of Lodge St. Barchan (208). On that evening it was decided that every St Andrews Day, the Lodge would elect the Master, Wardens and Office Bearers for the forthcoming 12 months.

The minute from the 2nd of June 1786 documents the change in the Lodge's number to 156. The number 208 is now allocated to Lodge Stranraer Kilwinning.

"The number of Lodge St. Barchan is changed to 156. It is unanimously agreed by ballot that all members of this Lodge who were entered preceding the oath of the warrant granted by the Grand Lodge, shall be exempted from all quarterly accounts."

As noted earlier these early minutes of the Lodge were recorded by brother James Houston. Unfortunately, not much has been minuted about Bro. James Houston although he acted as Secretary for the first two years of the Lodge's existence before becoming Depute Master. In his latter years he became Tyler and received benefit from the Lodge for a number of years. From what records we have from this time, we believe that he died in the year 1845.

What we do know however is that his son Matt gave sterling service to the Lodge and in a unique occasion he had the distinction of taking the chair exactly 100 years after his father James. At the centenary celebrations old Matt Houston sang to the brethren and thereafter unveiled portraits of his father and himself. These portraits hung in The Masonic Arms Inn until 1921 when the Lodge vacated the premises.

Matt Houston’s grave lies 5.5 metres south of the Reverend Mr Warner memorial in the old cemetery within Kilbarchan. It is reasonable to assume that James Houston lies there also. In 1984 whilst celebrating the Lodges bi-centenary, a wreath was laid in a mark of respect to both father and son.

One tradition that has been lost in more recent years is that of laying foundation stones. The first record of Lodge St. Barchan of taking part in such a ceremony is noted in the minute of March 27th 1787:

"The Master and Brethren march in procession to lay the Foundation Stone of a new relief church accompanied by the Largs Kilwinning Lodge. Under the foundation stone is placed an engraved plate by Robert Beath of Johnstone."

Two years later, it is recorded that the Lodge raised sufficient funds to purchase a banner and jewels. Brother John Gibb is given monies to purchase ribbons for the jewels. Unfortunately he was later expelled when it is discovered that he appropriated part of the money.

For reference, the fees at this time were:

Of these amounts, the Lodge retained half. The remainder being used to offset expenses.

The minute of 1st September 1791 records the first meeting of the Lodge to be held outside Kilbarchan, when the Master calls a meeting in Johnstone where Archibald Jamieson and John Barbour receive their E.A. degree. This was the first meeting the Lodge held outside Kilbarchan.

This was one of the first minutes written by Bro. Robert Kerr. Bro. Kerr was to hold the office of Secretary for 50 years.

He was initiated into Lodge St. Barchan on 11th December 1790 and immediately became Secretary before vacating the office in 1792 when he left to go to a distant place. He returned in 1793 and became Master before once again taking up the reigns as Secretary in December 1795 remaining until December 1812. He again was called upon in the year 1832 and again remained in post until 1850.

In the summer of that year Bro. Kerr became ill and the brethren ordered a bottle of whisky to be delivered to him on a weekly basis as a token of their esteem. The brevity of Bro. Kerr's minutes have saddened many historians of the Lodge and as such, much of what occurred during his years in office have been lost.

Bro. Kerr was a writer and a brother of the village blacksmith. What cannot be denied however is that he served the Lodge well for 60 years and minuted the proceedings of the Lodge in his home, by candlelight.

1800 - 1899

The first mention of the Lodge acquiring property occurs on 7th March 1800 when it is minuted that the Lodge makes a purchase on the south side of the Cross in Kilbarchan. The cost was £125 and was paid in full to Mr Humphrey Barbour.

The Lodge decided not to enter the property straight away but to rent it out at a cost of £12 per year. During the year 1800, the Lodge deposited some of its funds (amounting to £25 / 7s / 6d) with The Union Bank. Brethren who had not paid their loans were threatened with prosecution.

On the theme of laying foundation stones mentioned in a previous chapter it was minuted on 20th March 1807 that Lodge St. John Beith invited Lodge St. Barchan to assist in the laying of a foundation stone of the new Church.

This is a re-occurring theme, and on 17th October 1809 it was minuted that the Lodge forms outside the Lodge Room at 8am whereupon they all walk in procession to Inchinnan where they lay the foundation stone of the new bridge to be erected there.

We read in the minutes of January 1807 that two brethren petition the Lodge to hold meetings at Bridge of Weir. This motion is actioned on 12th May 1807 when the brethren of Lodge St. Barchan attend Bridge of Weir to confer the E.A. degree on 6 candidates.

While the finances seem to be on a firm footing with the purchase of property it is also noted on 30th November 1807 that both Archibald Wilson and John Stewart Snr offered the office of Treasurer. Both are fined after refusing.

It may simply be coincidence, but on the same date it was minuted that a letter was received from The Grand Lodge of Scotland requesting assistance in the building of a new Lodge. This was refused.

What appears to be the favourite pastime of the Lodge again turns up in the minutes of 2nd May 1817 when the Provincial Grand Master of Renfrewshire requests Lodge St. Barchan to assist in the laying of a foundation stone at the new Custom and Excise building. The brethren assemble at 6am, and march to Greenock where they spend the day and night in harmony.

On 6th July 1818 the Lodge receives a letter from Neilston inviting the Lodge to attend the dedication of the new Lodge there.

On March 29th 1828 a large deputation from St. Barchan travel to nearby Johnstone where a foundation stone is laid for the new Relief House. The stone was laid by the Master of Houstoun St Johnstone No. 242, assisted by the other Masters present.

On July 29th 1829, a large deputation from the Lodge travels to Glasgow to witness the laying of a foundation stone at Hutchison's bridge. After a sermon, which was held in High Street, the brethren visited the following lodges Glasgow Kilwinning (4), Glasgow St. Mungo (27), Thistle and Rose (73), Union and Crown (99), and Patrick St. Marys (117).

The first official visit from Lodge Houstoun St. Johnstone to Lodge St Barchan took place on March 5th 1830. This must be one of the longest associations between lodges with inter visits continuing into the 21st century. 

The brethren of the Lodge have a reputation for speaking their mind - after laying the new foundation stone at the new Church in Kilmacolm, Bro. James Mack became unruly and insulted the Master. After refusing to apologise Bro. Mack was asked to leave. The brethren resolved to report the matter to Grand Lodge but later decided to take no further action.

We tend to think that economic hardships are a recent trend, but it was minuted on 4th June 1841 that it was decided to give a 10/- (50p) rebate on Lodge property. In addition, it was the decision of the brethren to reduce the rent from £19 to £16 due to a depreciation in trade. Due to the high levels of unemployment, the Festival of St. John was curtailed. The Master on his day of installation was conveyed from his home to the Lodge without music.

On 18th January 1842 the Lodge travelled to Greenock to lay the foundation stone of a monument to Highland Mary. This was followed some eight years later by a return visit on 17th October 1850 to lay the foundation stone of the new tidal harbour to be named Victoria harbour after the Queen. The Provincial Grand Secretary of Western Province thanked the Lodge on behalf of Sir Michael Shaw Stewart.

One of the earliest recorded gifts to a brother of the Lodge occurred on Aril 14th 1854 when Past Master Robert Young was presented with a silver watch as a mark of esteem.

Later in the same year Bro. Alex Lyle is refused admittance on casting vote of the RWM. This causes a furore in the Lodge and the Secretary was instructed to send a communication to Grand Lodge to seek clarification. Grand Lodge replies and instructs the Lodge to purchase 50 black and 50 white balls.

On 14th January 1857 William Ferrier, son of Hugh Ferrier became the first person to be admitted to St. Barchan upon attaining the age of 18 years. This is the Lodges first Lewis.

On 14th June 1858 a number of brethren travel to Edinburgh to witness the laying of the foundation stone of the new Masonic Hall.

On 8th October 1858, Bro. Archibald Houston, the Lodge Tyler dies, and true to his request made in 1849, he is buried by the Lodge with full Masonic Honours. Having no living relatives, a plot was purchased by the Lodge and 2 gallons of spirits were distributed amongst the brethren.

At the request of Bro. David Jeffrey, on 18th June 1859 the Lodge assembled and preceded by instrumental band, proceeded through the village via Barholm to Johnstone where the RWM and brethren of Lodge Houstoun St Johnstone joined them.

All then marched to Linwood where a foundation stone was laid at the new church. The blessing was given by Rev. Robert Graham and Mrs Speirs of Caldess deposited a box containing coins and papers in a cavity within the stone. The Lodge returned home to Kilbarchan by way of Burnbrae House Elderslie, Thornhill and Johnstone where Lodge Houstoun St. Johnstone invited them in for refreshments.

William Purdon, Lodge Secretary wrote in his minutes:

"Masons who met upon the square, parted on the level"

On 6th February 1863 the brethren of the Lodge headed by the RWM Bro. David Jeffrey travelled to Bridge of Weir to christen the house of Peter Alexandra, "The Masonic Arms".

This was carried out with due pomp and ceremony with the band leading the brethren three times around the house. On the third circuit, the Master came to the threshold and poured wine and oil over the Masonic symbols above the door while the Band played The Old Hundred. Afterwards, the Master and Brethren entered and opened their Lodge whereupon they conferred the E.A. degree on Archibald Turner, a cotton spinner from Bridge of Weir.

The RWM Bro. O.G McGregor ordered a special meeting of Brethren on 6th December 1863 in accordance with instructions received from the Provincial Grand Master intimating his desire to inspect the books and working of the Lodge generally.

There was a good muster of brethren. The RWM having opened the Lodge, the Deacons then introduced the visitor for the evening, Bro. Col. Campbell of Blythswood who was received with honours. A strict investigation of the books having taken place, the Bro. Campbell gave his unqualified approbation of the working of the Lodge and exhorted the new Office Bearers to do all in their power to keep up the honour and dignity of the Craft and in particular of this time honoured Lodge.

The installation of Office Bearers appointed at the recent election thereafter took place. Each Brother came before the PGM and on receipt of his jewel received impressive advice relative to his duties. The PGM having similar duties to perform in an neighbouring Lodge then left amid Masonic Honours.

Lodge St. Barchan's Centenary celebrations began shortly before 6pm on 6th November 1884. Our old Master, Bro. Matthew Houston took the chair and requested Bro. John Hodgart to open the Lodge. This having been done Matt rose to his feet and told the assembled brethren that it was 100 years since his father was made the first Master of the Lodge.

Due to the Matt's age, Bro. Thomas McCrorie acted as Depute Master. Colonel Sir Archibald C. Campbell of Blythswood, Grand Master Mason of Scotland then rose to tell the brethren that he has signed the book for the 1st time as the Grand Master Mason, an office he had only held for 24 hours. He then wished the Lodge all prosperity.

The Lodge was thereafter closed and the Brethren marched through the village of Kilbarchan with a band of music and 25 torchbearers. The procession concluded at 7:30pm and the Brethren retired to their homes where they conveyed their good ladies by carriage to the schoolroom.

Bro. Thomas McCrorie PM, DM presided. On his right sat Bro. D. Murray Lyon, Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Scotland. Also in attendance were Bro. John Carswell PM and Bro. Robert Kerr. On the left sat James Caldwell Snr Past Senior Warden of The Grand Lodge of Scotland, James Caldwell Jnr (grandson and great grandson of Matt and James Houston respectively), John Hodgart PM, James Thomson PM 102, Daniel Cunningham PM, O.G McGregor PM Sec.

Bro. Alex Hamilton of Lodge Beith St. John 157 sang and Bro. Malcolm Neil SW composed a poem to 156. The visiting brethren were toasted by Bro. James Stevenson. Bro. O.G. McGregor reported the past history of the Lodge.

Bro William Brodie, Grand Master Mason of New York affiliated to Lodge St Barchan on 20th July 1888.

When old Matt Houston died, intimation was placed in the Paisley Daily Express, a copy of which somehow found its way to New York. Brother Brodie who had been born in Kilbarchan in 1841 saw this.

Bro. Brodie's parents had emigrated to America in 1843 taking their infant son with them. After reading the intimation Bro. Brodie wrote to the Lodge conveying his sympathies and telling them something of himself.

By this time Bro. Brodie was the head of 70,000 Masons and he looked forward to visiting the village of his birth. The Lodge Secretary wrote to Brother Brodie expressing him good wishes and a warm welcome should he ever return. On July 20th 1888 Bro. Brodie fulfilled his promise and became an affiliate member of Lodge St Barchan.

Bro. Brodie will probably be best remembered as the man who laid the foundation stone of The Statue Of Liberty. Bro. Brodie moved to Genesco in 1863 and was employed by General James A. Wadsworth for most of his life. He was active in the community and an avid church and public office holder. He was the founder of The Genesco Normal and Training School now known as The State University of New York where the University of Fine Arts is dedicated to his honour.

We in Lodge St Barchan are proud to have this good and honourable Brother affiliated to our Lodge.

In the period 1860 to 1880 there was, it appears from the minutes, an unusually large number of sailors of the Royal Navy becoming members of St. Barchan. The names of the ships H.M.S. Flirt, H.M.S. Harpy, and H.M.S. Black Prince appear quite frequently in the minutes of the Lodge.

On 4th July 1873 three sailors from H.M.S. Flirt received their Mark Degree. As you turn the page of the minute book it reads that on August 23rd 1873 there was a visit to the Lodge by St. Johns Operative Lodge No. 347 which was met at Milliken Park station by Lodge members and the Kilbarchan Band. Also present was a deputation from H.M.S. Flirt.

From further inspection of the minute books, these brethren who were initiated eventually found themselves scattered to the four corners of the Globe. The correspondence however shows that they never forgot their Mother Lodge.

H.M.S. Flirt was sunk during World War I with numerous casualties, H.M.S. Harpy served in the Dardanelles campaign during the same period, and H.M.S. Pembroke was a barracks in England.

H.M.S. Black Prince was a Glasgow built ironclad frigate. Once in service, Black Prince was assigned to the Channel Fleet until 1866, then spent a year as flagship on the Irish coast.

Overhauled and re-armed between 1867 and 1868, she became guardship on the Clyde river. The routine of that duty was interrupted in 1869 when she and HMS Warrior towed a large floating dry-dock from the Azores to Bermuda.

Black Prince was again refitted between 1874 and 1875 and rejoined the Channel Fleet for a tour as flagship of that force's second-in-command. Later in the decade she crossed the Atlantic to visit Canada. In reserve from 1878, and reclassified as an armoured cruiser during much of that period, she was reactivated periodically to take part in annual fleet exercises.

Black Prince became a harbour training ship in 1896, stationed at Queenstown, Ireland. She was renamed Emerald in 1903. In 1910 she was taken to Plymouth for use in the training facility there under the name Impregnable III. The old ship was sold for scrap in 1923.

William Yeats the son of George Yeats received his F.C degree at 4:30pm on 14th January 1899 because he had to return from leave. No sooner had he received it when another Brother, William Houston Wilson, arrived for his F.C degree which was carried out by Bro. James McKean PM Lodge Union and Crown No 103. The degree was delivered to the satisfaction of the Brethren assembled. The Lodge then adjourned for one and a half-hours whereupon it opened in the 3rd degree and six Brethren were raised.

On 7th October 1879 Thomas McCrorie affiliated to Lodge St. Barchan from Lodge Mother Kilwinning No. 0, and was elected Master of St. Barchan during December of the same year.

Bro. McCrorie was a schoolmaster by profession and a Mason extraordinaire by repute. From the minutes it seems he was in great demand throughout the province especially in the art of the laying of a Foundation stone.

In addition Bro. McCrorrie gave lectures on the Craft and its beginnings. On January 2nd 1888 Bro. McCrorie laid the Foundation stone of the new houses being built at Park View, after which he was presented with a silver trowel which is still displayed within the lodge room.

To the East of where Lodge St. Barchan now stands, Park View was the local school where Bro. McCrorie taught. This school has long since gone but the housing development, which subsequently replaced it, is aptly named McCrorie Place.

Lodge St. Barchan is proud to have been involved in the opening of the Public Park in Kilbarchan on 1st September 1888.

The Lodge marched into the Town Foot where a horse market was held. The Park Committee arranged the procession which consisted of the Kilbarchan Instrumental Band, Volunteer Trustees of the Park Feuars, Large Subscribers, Freemasons, Clippens Square Band, Kilbarchan General Society, Seventh Friendly Society, Good Templars Society, St. Margaret's Roman Catholics and finally Johnstone Brass Band.

The procession was completed by 300 children marshalled by Thomas McCrorrie PM and fellow Teacher John Thomson. The procession marched up Church Street, up Shuttle Street and as far as Easwald Terrace where it turned back towards The Cross and up New Street to the Gate entrance of the new park.

Mr. Patrick Barr then presented Dr. A.H. Freeland Barbour of Gryffe Castle with a silver key and the latter then opened the new gate formally declaring it open. Unfortunately, the organised sports event did not take place owing to the heavy rain.

The Public Park was put to good use by the Lodge - on September 2nd 1899 St John's Operative Lodge visit St. Barchan on their bi-annual outing. Some arrive by motor vehicle and the remainder by foot. Sports are held in the public park and races between the Past Masters result in the PM's of 156 winning. All leave at 8.33pm to catch the tram from nearby Milliken Park.

Who could better carry Lodge St. Barchan from the Nineteenth into the Twentieth century than Oliver Goldsmith McGregor PM. He gave the Lodge loyal service as Master 6 times, Secretary on 25 occasions and served as a trustee of the Lodge from 1855 until 1919. He was first elected Master on 30th November 1855.

Bro. McGregor was initiated into Lodge St. Barchan on July 31st 1854 and from the very start of his Masonic career he served the Lodge with love and devotion that will be difficult to surpass. On March 2nd 1855, only nine months after his initiation, he proposed a revision of the Lodge bye-laws in an effort to bring them in line with Grand Lodge.

Bro. McGregor was present at the laying of the memorial stone to Grand Lodge in 1855 and again in 1911. On the latter he was congratulated by the Marquis of Tullibane, later the Duke of Atholl and was awarded an annuity from Grand Lodge for nigh on ten years.

He thought deeply about both the craft and his fellow man, as the following extract from the minutes of 1st March 1878 shows:

"It is laudable to give succour and assistance to all that deserve sympathy and aid in these evil days. But assistance is thrown away on the unworthy who would take all they can get and look for it more simply as a means to avoid exertion on their own behalf and with the perfect disregard for the future, want of brains, want of prudence, want of thrift, wastefulness, dissipated habits and an inhibility or disinclination to work. Do not blame society or the State of things, or the land Laws or anything beyond the man himself, or the family itself."

1900 - 1999

In the early 20th century people from the West of Scotland began to look further afield for work and a better standard of living for their families.

The brethren of Lodge St. Barchan were no exception and the minute of 24th April 1902 records the departure of three brethren, Bros. Allan Walker, Thomas Walker and Archibald Houston for the United States of America aboard the S.S. Ethiopia (Anchor Line).

Perhaps they were also trying to escape the unpredictable climate - in the minutes of the same year we are informed that the Festival of St John parade through the streets is cut short because of the wet and stormy weather. The Lodges represented are numbers 22, 114, 205, 242, 275, 370, 399, 426, 609 and 791.

The account for refreshment reaches £5/5/- (£5.25p). As was the norm of the day, no collection was taken on St Johns Day and so many visitors frequented the Lodge, some of the brethren could not gain admittance.

The minute of 1st February 1908 informs us that Bro. Sydney George Wilkinson who went to Russia in 1906 returns to his Mother Lodge and receives his mark. He then pays his life membership (15/-or 75p) before returning to Russia.

Lodge St. Barchan's relationship with both Grand Lodge and Provincial Grand Lodge has not always been straightforward.

On 22nd December 1900, Alex Harris a Police Constable of Bridge of Weir was initiated into the Lodge prior to him leaving for South Africa as one of Baden- Powell's Police. It is believed now, that the intention was that he would receive his further degrees in South Africa.

By co-incidence, one week later Sgt. Robert Gray of the Army Ordinance Corps returned from South Africa and was duly initiated into St Barchan on 4th January 4 1901. On the same day due to the South African connection and because he had received notification that his passage had been delayed, Bro. Harris received his 2nd degree.

Bro. Harris was subsequently notified of his immediate departure and attended the Lodge pleading to be raised by St. Barchan as he had no idea as to when and where this would be accomplished. Probably out of a sense of patriotism and in full knowledge that Grand Lodge Laws were being flouted, it was the unanimous vote of the Brethren that the 3rd degree should be carried out.

After numerous correspondences between the Lodge and Grand Lodge regarding the exceptional circumstances, Lodge St Barchan's RWM at the time, Bro. Adam Ritchie was suspended in 1901 for a period of six months. The brethren of the Lodge acknowledging their own culpability voted to confer no other degrees until the suspension was served.

Bro. Ritchie died in 1907.

Benevolence has always played an important role in St. Barchan, not only for the brethren and their families but also outside the Lodge.

Early examples are recorded - on 30th November 1901 five widows each receive 5cwt of coal from the Lodge Benevolent Fund. Again, in November 1908 we are informed that 1 ton of coal was given to Widows and indigent Brethren.

The benevolence given depended on the circumstances - it may have been in a practical form as noted above; equally the assistance may be financial in nature.

On 2nd May 1902 a donation of £1 is gifted for relief following the Ibrox Park catastrophe. The photograph on the right shows policemen inspecting a section of collapsed terracing at the West End of Ibrox Park, 1902. Twenty-four people lost their lives and more than 600 were injured when a section of the temporary terracing collapsed during a Scotland v England international match.

The tradition of assisting others still has an important role and the brethren are proud to support good causes both within and outwith the Lodge.

As many brethren will know, Lodge St. Barchan currently owns two properties in the village of Kilbarchan - the current Lodge premises in New Street and a second property in Church Street.

In the minute of 20th November 1907, it is noted that the Lodge borrowed £600 on the security of an old property as a means of erecting a new property thereon. The Foundation Stone was to contain coins, newspapers and a sketch of the old property.

Permission to wear regalia was granted by The Provincial Grand Lodge and on Saturday 28th December 1907 a torch lit procession pre emptied the laying of the stone by the RWM Bro. George Yeats which was witnessed by the general public and the various contractors.

Bro. Yeats was then presented with a silver trowel marking the occasion.

In addition to the purchase price above, further expense was incurred for legal fees, stamp duty and furnishings, and a final account for the princely sum of £755 was presented in 1908.

Despite many external pressures, the brethren of Lodge St. Barchan have remained adamant in regard to their Annual Divine Service.

The first extensive minute relating to a Divine Service, using terminology not commonly found in St. Barchan documents, is encountered on 13th June 1909.

"Crowds began to arrive by car and on foot from neighbouring towns and villages. Considerable interest was shown in the assembling of Brethren in the commodious grounds of Gibson Bros. The beautiful grounds being well suited for the marshalling of the brethren by Bro. John Marshall.

Altogether 27 lodges were represented, together with the Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East. The procession was headed by Johnstone Prize silver band which discoursed sacred music. The day was glorious and Aprons and Jewels sparkled in the sun.

The beautiful church was soon filled to overflowing, many failing to get in. Bro. Dr. EE Harper, Musical director who efficiently presided with the organ. The anthem “Tell it out” sung by the choir was the musical composition by the talented organist and was highly appreciated. The items of praise comprised of “The Old Hundred” Psalm and Newman's beautiful hymn “Lead Kindly Light”. The band played in subdued luminous notes. The lessons were read by Bro. Rev. J.A. Abernethy, Chaplain of the Lodge Craigends while Bro. Rev. Robert Barr PG Chaplain preached the sermon.

The concluding portion of the service was by Bro. Rev. R.D. McKenzie, chaplain of Lodge St. Barchan."

When Bro. William Lawson became Secretary of Lodge St. Barchan, he could not have foreseen the Priceless Jewel that he was to leave his Mother Lodge in the shape of those minutes that he kept during the period of World War One.

These minutes graphically describe the horror of the four years from 1914 to 1918. The evidence of the war was continually set before him in the Lodge Room when Brethren in military dress came before him, some with missing limbs, others suffering the symptoms of mustard gas poisoning and countless others who considered themselves the fortunate ones to come home only bandaged.

In addition, Bro. Lawson had the unenviable task of writing to the widows and immediate family of those brethren who had been posted killed or missing.

Bro. Lawson himself was in the printing trade and resided in nearby Johnstone. He considered himself a friend to Bro. George Yeats, Lodge St Barchan's longest ever serving Master. Bro. Lawson died suddenly aged only 50 years at 1.30 p.m. on Monday 21st March 1921.

Such was the esteem of the late Brother that on the 24th March the brethren assembled in the Lodge Room and thereafter marched to the Tram Terminus where a special tram conveyed them to Bro. Lawson's home in Ellerslie Street Johnstone, from whence they conveyed Bro. Lawson to the Abbey Cemetery in Elderslie where he was buried with full Masonic honours.

The sons of George Yeats were all initiated into Lodge St Barchan. They were William Yeats 31st December 1898, John Lyndsay Yeats 14th December 1901 and James Ironside Yeats 17th September 1902.

After his initiation, James took no further part in Lodge business, which was perhaps due to the fact that his vocation took him around the world while William later moved to Egypt, where he remained all his life.

Whilst the minutes tell us little about his siblings, they tell us much about John L Yeats, who in his early life was employed in the Dockyards in Portsmouth where he fitted guns to the first Dreadnaught, the forerunner of all the great modern battleships of the Royal Navy.

After his return, he served the Lodge dutifully for 40 years. He went through the offices in the Lodge in the same way as the brethren today and it was he who introduced music to the degree work.

In 1924 while in ill-health, the Lodge Secretary ripped 2 pages from the minute book and in his anger, Lord Blythswood called for Lodge St Barchan's Charter to be removed and his would have been carried out but for the fact that the RWM of the time, Bro. James Wylie issued a sworn statement that the minutes were fit and proper.

Bro. Yeats obviously had a concern with this and did not attend the Lodge in any capacity for the three years that the Bro. Wylie was in the chair.

Bro. Yeats returned to the Lodge in 1926 as the Director of Ceremonies during the trying years after the purchase of the new premises.

The Lodge Premises as we know them today, formerly the Conservative Halls and Unitarian Church hall were first purchased in 1920 and a great deal of alterations had to be undertaken including the building of two adjacents. The Temple was finally made ready for consecration on 23rd April 1921.

300 Brethren held a Muster at the Old Premises and marched in procession towards the New Hall. The Provincial Grand Lodge, 71 of whom signed the attendance book headed on that occasion by the RWPGM Bro. Pattison, was piped into the new Lodge and thereafter opened Provincial Grand Lodge.

Bro. Rev. R D McKenzie read the consecration prayer followed by the singing of the Consecration hymn. The RWM then presented the charter to the Provincial Grand Master who then scrutinised the document to satisfy himself that this was the Charter presented to the Lodge in 1784.

The Provincial Office Bearers then consecrated the Lodge with corn, wine and oil.

The Provincial Grand Master was thereafter presented with a Rose Bowl to mark the occasion and the assembled lodge sang the 72nd Psalm to the tune Dunfermline.

The contractors presented the RWM with a gold key and the Lodge went to Harmony.

On 2nd October 1928 the Lodge received a proposal for membership from dynamic individual by the name of Ralph Denholm. Following his initiation, passing and raising, his first office was that of Organist and so he took the first step on the ladder which was to ultimately lead to the high and distinguished office of the Provincial Grand Master of the Province of Renfrewshire East.

Following the purchase of the new premises, the Lodge's expenditure far exceeded it’s income. Despite this being a time of recession, the hard work and determination of Bro. Ralph and his fellow Office Bearers eventually placed the Lodge back on a sound financial footing.

Bro. Denholm did not attempt ceremonial work until April 1929, but from then he went from strength to strength and in November 1936 he was elected RWM of Lodge St Barchan.

In 1956 he was installed Grand Almoner of Provincial Grand Lodge and in October 1970, as RWPGDM, he headed a deputation to the Chessington Lodge No. 6067 (English Constitution) when Bro. George Lyle was installed as it's Master.

In that same year the Master of Lodge St Barchan, Bro. Denis McCormack had the privilege of proposing Bro. Denholm's nomination as RWPGM at a meeting of the Sister Lodges within the Province.

In 1983, Bro. Ralph Denholm attended Lodge St Barchan where he congratulated the RWM Bro. Malcolm Whyte. Sadly this was to be his last visit. Bro. Denholm passed on 26 January 1984 and missed the Bi-Centenary celebrations of the Lodge he did so much for in ensuring its ongoing prosperity.

Bro. James Todd was installed as Master of Lodge St. Barchan in December 1954. Some of the older documentation is incomplete, but it is believed that Bro. Todd was the youngest man to ascend to the chair in 156. Following his term in office he was asked on many occasions to act as Installing Master for his successors.

Bro. Todd is one of that group of brethren from the Lodge who travelled down to participate in meetings with the Good Companions Lodge in Birkenhead No. 6759 (EC) and the Lodge has continued that tradition ever since. In recognition of the support he has extended over the years the brethren of the Good Companions Lodge conferred Honorary Membership on Bro. Todd on 7th February 1998.

Work commitments took Bro. Todd down to Stockport where he affiliated to the Cheadle Norbury Lodge No. 3731 (EC). Given Jim's enthusiasm for freemasonry it will come of no surprise to learn that he once again entered progressive office, and in 1994 took the chair of his adopted Lodge.

During his tenure of office as Worshipful Master of the Norbury Lodge Bro. Todd invited the brethren from St. Barchan to come down to Stockport and confer an exemplification of the MM degree in 1997. The brethren were delighted to take up this invitation and a deputation made the journey south to carry out the ceremony with Bro. Ian Scott "volunteering" to act as candidate on the night. The size of the deputation was a mark of the high regard the brethren of 156 have for Bro. Todd.

For most brethren, ascending to the chair of their Mother Lodge is the pinnacle of their Masonic career. Bro. Alexander Connacher or "Alex" as he was known in the Lodge, was installed as RWM in December 1970 but this was simply to act as a springboard for what was to follow, both in Freemasonry and the Order of the Eastern Star.

Alex, faithfully served as Secretary for over 30 years overseeing the Lodge's Bi-Centenary and 225th Anniversary celebrations. Alex was a member of many Masonic Orders, but he is also particularly proud of his long standing association with the Order of the Eastern Star and has served as Patron of the Glentyan Chapter on more occasions than anyone dare try to count.

Bro. Connacher was one of the founder members of St. Barchan Social Club, and not content with his duties as Lodge Secretary Alex also took on the roles of Hallkeeper and Bar Convenor, which he finally relinquished in 2009.

Bro. Alex passed to higher service in late 2021 aged 94. He will be sadly missed

Bro. Matthew Naismith McCallum was installed as Master of Lodge St. Barchan in December 1972. During his year on the chair Matt and a group of his fellow Masters formed what became known as the "Quality Street Gang", and if one of Sister Lodges were experiencing low attendances the "Gang" would descend en masse to lend their support.

Raising donations on such evenings was never an issue as many of the brethren were only too happy to pay just to prevent Matt murdering "Roll a silver dollar".

Matt served as Director of Ceremonies of 156 for more than twenty years and will always be remembered for this. Matt ran the Lodge's instruction classes during this time and encouraged many brethren to take that first step and attempt some ritual work.

Bro. McCallum was also well known for the high standard of his own degree work and was pressed into service as Installing Master on many occasions. His last time in this role was to install his nephew Bro. Robert Watt in 1988.

Along with Bro. Alex Connacher and others, Matt was one of the founder members of St. Barchan Social Club and was elected as its Chairman in 1973.

All successful Lodges require a solid foundation in the form of their Secretary and Treasurer. Lodge St. Barchan is extremely fortunate to have Bro. J Stuart Hamilton serving as Treasurer. As on 2022, Bro. Stuart has served more than 40 years in this office.

During his time as Treasurer, Bro. Hamilton has managed to walk that tightrope of keeping 156 on a firm financial footing while ensuring that the Lodge continues to support worthwhile causes both within and outwith the craft.

While the brethren of the Lodge look forward to their annual pilgrimage down to Birkenhead, someone has to organise bed and lodgings for the trip and Stuart willingly takes on this role. He also ensures that the brethren from Good Companions are looked after when they travel north. In recognition of this as well as the other sterling work Stuart carries out to cement the friendship between the Lodges, honorary membership of the Good Companions Lodge was bestowed on Bro. Hamilton on 7th February 1998.

In recognition of Bro. Hamilton's work on behalf of both Lodge St. Barchan and the Province of Renfrewshire East, Bro. Stuart was bestowed with the honorary rank of Assistant Provincial Grand Treasurer by Dixon Drye, the Provincial Grand Master on 28th January 2006.

Bro. Stuart received further recognition for his service to his mother lodge and the Province of Renfrewshire East on 18th January 2022, when he was presented with a jewel and certificate as Honorary Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge of Scotland by Bro. Neil Fraser RWPGM and Bro. Brian Lees RWM.

Bro. Stuart is an active member of St. Barchan Social Club and has served as both Treasurer and Chairman on a number of occasions

In November 1984 Lodge St. Barchan celebrated it's Bi-Centenary and to mark the occasion a re-dedication ceremony took place in Johnstone Town Hall.

The Lodge was first opened by Bro. Malcolm Whyte who then presented the mallet to Bro. Alexander Hutton, Provincial Grand Master of Renfrewshire East, who in turn passed it to the Grand Master Mason of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, Bro. Marcus Humphrey of Dinnet.

The Grand Master Mason and his team of Office Bearers carried out the ceremony of re-dedication and presented the Lodge Office Bearers with their new regalia before returning the gavel to Bro. Whyte, who closed the proceedings.

Throughout it's 200th year, firstly with Bro. Whyte and latterly with Bro. David Perrie as Right Worshipful Master the Lodge ran a series of social events, culminating in a 200th Anniversary Dinner in Johnstone Town Hall.

It is interesting to look at the photograph of the Office Bearers, taken in November 1984. While a number of brethren who were junior Office Bearers at that time have now retired gracefully into the ranks of Past Masters, Bro. J Stuart Hamilton still continues in the running the administrative affairs of the Lodge today, more than 40 years later.

For someone whose father was an active member of Lodge St. Barchan and whose two uncles were both Past Masters of 156, it is surprising that Br. Robert Watt managed to resist putting pen to paper until his early twenties.

Having joined St. Barchan Bro. Watt or "Bobby" to all who know him, rapidly progressed in office and was installed as Master in December 1988 by his uncle, Bro. Matt McCallum PM. Some eight years later, when the Lodge required someone to step into the breach, Bobby stepped forward and was installed for a second time in 1997.

Following his second term as Master, Bro. Watt followed in the footsteps of his uncle, Matt McCallum, by serving for a number of years as Director of Ceremonies. Bobby continued to support Lodge 156 on it's visitations to Sister Lodges, a number of whom have deemed it appropriate to confer Honorary Membership on Bro. Watt.

He was often called into service as one of the Installing Masters in Lodge St. Barchan. More unusually Bobby was also been asked to carry out the Installation Ceremony "away from home" and installed the RWM in Lodge Inveraray St. John No. 50, Lodge Darvel No. 971 and most recently Lodge Fleur de Lys No. 1722,

Bobby was an ardent golfer and enjoyed more than a little success when taking part in Provincial Grand Lodge's McMenemy and Major Allan Competitions.

In recognition for his efforts within both Lodge St. Barchan and the Province, Bro. Watt was presented with a Distinguished Service Certificate by the Provincial Grand Master at the Lodge's 225th Anniversary celebration.

Following a long battle against illness Bobby passed away in the Golden Jubilee Hospital on 17th June 2012

The first mention in the minutes of any success on a sporting front occurred on 15th August 1908 when it was noted that George Gibson's rink from St. Barchan won the Lord Blythswood trophy.

The Lodge have continued to support Provincial Grand Lodge's bowling and golf competitions, although, despite this early success in bowling, golf have proven to be more successful in recent years with H Bain, H Blackburn, S Bogle, A Forrest, E Findlay, JS Hamilton, R McCormack, I Scott, A Burke, R Watt and W Wilson bringing the silverware from the McMenemy and Major Allan competitions back to 156.

The majority of the history section of the website is dedicated to events that took place within the Lodge or brethren who took high office within it.

It would be remiss not to make mention of a brother of the Lodge who has taken high office since moving away from the area. In 1992, a deputation from Lodge St. Barchan travelled up to Lodge Seaforth on the Black Isle, as this gave the brethren an opportunity to again meet with Bro. W Ramsay McGhee, a Master Mason of 156 who had taken the chair of the Lodge after moving north with his work in the police force, where he ultimately served as Head of Operations of the Northern Constabulary. In addition, it also gave the brethren from Lodge St. Barchan a chance to witness a degree team from the Police College at Tulliallan at work.

Bro. McGhee has since moved onwards and upwards - serving as Provincial Grand Master of Ross and Cromarty and most recently as the Most Worshipful Grand Master Mason of the Grand Lodge of Scotland. More information on Bro. McGhee's accomplishments can be found in a later section of the Lodge's history.

2000 - Today

Throughout it's history has continued to cement old friendships and make new ones all over the world. Brethren from the Lodge has travelled far and wide spreading the good name of Lodge St. Barchan. It is fitting however to make highlight two in particular.

Firstly, what record of the history of the Lodge would be complete without mention of the annual visits with the Good Companions Lodge No. 6759 in Birkenhead. While it is always a delight to welcome our brethren from across the border to our Installation in December, the prospect of carrying out some missionary work in warmer southern climes is the highlight of the year for many St. Barchan brethren.

It would also be remiss not to make mention of the long standing association between Lodge St. Barchan and Lodge Tarbolton Kilwinning St. James No. 135, the Lodge of Robert Burns, our National Bard.

For many years the brethren from Tarbolton travelled up to 156 where they conferred a degree in the afternoon followed by the annual Burns' Supper. The association with Tarbolton still continues with the two Lodges exchanging degree meetings.

In recent years the formal visitations have been further augmented by a team of cronies (or "ne'er do wells" in Stuart Blackburn parlance) from the Tarbolton Lodge who carry out St. Barchan's Burns' Supper.

This page simply lists two of the Lodges which Lodge St. Barchan have along standing relationship with. Further mention of the other Lodges with whom we are in fraternal accord is made on the page to follow.

It is often said that visiting sister Lodges is the lifeblood of Freemasonry and over the years, the brethren of Lodge St. Barchan have taken this to heart.

In addition to the Lodges from Birkenhead and Tarbolton, as described on the previous page, Lodge 156 is justifiably proud of its associations with other Lodges.

Within the Province of Renfrewshire East, Lodge Garthland St. Winnoch No. 205, Lodge Houstoun St. Johnstone No. 242, Lodge Prince of Wales No. 426 Lodge Captain Speirs 791 and Lodge Craigends No. 1042 are among the first to enter the syllabus each year.

The Master of the Lodge also has an element of flexibility and formal deputations from Lodges Kirkintilloch St. John No. 28, Inveraray St. John No. 50, Paisley St. Mirrins 129, Wilsontown Ironworks St. Johns No. 236, Union and Crown No. 307, St. John Royal Arch No. 320, St. John's Operative Lodge No. 347, The Caledonian Railway Lodge No. 354, Renfrew County Kilwinning No. 370, Royal Blues No. 399, Athole No. 413, Neptune No. 419, Darvel No. 971, Springburn No. 1198, St. Medans No. 1335, Inchinnan 1405, Highland Light Infantry No. 1459, and Kil Bryd No. 1667 have all been welcomed into 156.

In 2009 Lodge St. Barchan celebrated its 225th Anniversary. A re-dedication ceremony was carried out in November by the Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East, who deputation was headed by Bro. David Reid, Provincial Grand Master who passed on his good wishes to the RWM of Lodge St. Barchan Bro. David Nicholl and his brethren.

In December 2009 Bro. Nicholl passed the reins over to Bro. Scott Bogle, whose installation was performed by Past Masters Robert Watt and Neil Fraser. They was assisted on the day by Scott's father James Bogle PM Lodge Albert Edward No. 592 and uncle Robert Bogle PM The Lodge of Erskine No. 1566.

Another highlight of 2010 was the Installation of Bro. David Crawley in Lodge Fleur de Lys No. 1722. David is a Past Master of the Good Companions Lodge in Birkenhead and an honorary member of Lodge St. Barchan. The ceremony was carried out by Past Masters Robert Watt and Neil Fraser of Lodge St. Barchan and assisted in their labours by Iain Hamilton SD, Sandy Graham Asst Sec. and George Lyle Master Mason of Lodge St. Barchan and Past Provincial Grand Master of Argyll and the Isles.

During 2010 Bro. Dennis McCormack sadly passed away. Dennis was installed as Master of the Lodge in December 1969 as was always ready to step forward and take part in the ritual work of the Lodge. In preparation of the Lodge's Bi-Centenary in 1984 Bro. Dennis worked tirelessly in producing a booklet detailing the Lodge's history and without that content, this section of our website would be sadly lacking.

Under normal circumstances Bro. Scott Bogle's tenure as RWM of the Lodge would have ended on Saturday 11th December 2010. Unfortunately, the Master Elect Bro. Robert Main was rushed into hospital and the Installation had to be postponed until January.

Bro. Robert's health improved sufficiently to allow the Installation Ceremony to take place on January 8th 2011. The Installing Masters on that occasion were Bro. Eddie Findlay and Bro. Hugh Blackburn both PMs of Lodge St. Barchan. They were assisted in their endeavours by Bro. David Nicholl PM 156, Bro. Nelson Blackburn PM 156, Bro. Ian French PM Lodges Craigends 1042 and Greyfriars 1221 and Bro. William Hepburn PM Lodge Neptune 419.

After some 39 years in office Bro. Alex Connacher decided it was time to hand over the reins as Secretary of the Lodge his successor being Past Master Bro. Sandy Graham. At the Installation Dinner the Past Masters, Office Bearers and brethren presented Bro. Connacher with a silver trophy which Alex prompty donated back to the Lodge to serve as a replacement for the ageing Golf trophy.

Once again the brethren of St. Barchan was been involved in the Installation at Lodge Fleur de Lys in Airdrie where Bro. David Crawley was entering his second year in office. On this occasion the Installing Masters were Neil Fraser PM and Eddie Findlay PM. Sandy Graham Sec., Nelson Blackburn PM, Stuart Blackburn DOC and Iain Hamilton WJW also took an active part in the ceremony.

On Saturday March 18th 2017, Bro. Neil Fraser PM 156 was installed as the Grand Master of the Province of Renfrewshire East by the Grand Master Mason Bro. Charles I.R. Wolridge Gordon of Esselmont. The ceremony was carried out in a most dignified manner and the Grand Master Mason was assisted by his Director of Ceremonies Bro. William Gauld PM 307 who installed Neil's commissioned Office Bearers.

Every Lodge in the Province was represented at the Installation. In addition deputations came from all over Scotland - in particular a large deputation travelled down from the Province of Ross and Cromarty as Neil's Mother Lodge is Lodge Seaforth No. 854 from Fortrose in the Black Isle.

Representatives also attended from the District Grand Lodges of New Zealand South and the Middle East; the deputation from the Middle East was headed their District Grand Master Bro. Kang Tee Youg.

Bro. Neil served his full term of five years as Provincial Grand Master before handing over the reins to Bro. Ronald E Fraser in 2022.

William Ramsay McGhee was initiated into Lodge St. Barchan on 18th February 1969, passed on 18th March 1969, raised on 22nd April 1969 and took out life membership of the Lodge later that year.

Ramsay was born in Uddingston but his family moved to Johnstone in the late 1950s and at the time of his initiation he was working in the Fairfield Shipyard in Govan.

Ramsay left the shipyard and joined the Ross and Dingwall Constabulary which later became part of the Northren Constabulary. His work in the police force took Ramsay all over the UK including spells in Lancashire and the Home Office in London. He retired from his position as Chief Superintendent in Inverness in 2003.

Ramsay had the honour of being appointed as a Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Ross and Cromarty, Skye and Lochalsh in May 2014.

Throughout his working life, Ramsay still remained active in freemasonry. He affiliated to Lodge Seaforth 854 in Fortrose and served as RWM in 1992. He was installed as Provincial Grand Master of Ross and Cromarty by the Most Worshipful Grand Master Mason Bro. Archibald Orr-Ewing in 2006.

In addition to his Provincial duties, Ramsay was appointed as Director of Ceremonies of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, a post he held for nine years before serving as Depute Master to also served of Depute Master to Bro. Charles Iain Robert Woolridge Gordon of Esselmont.

Ramsay served as Depute Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Scotland until late 2018. On 25th October 2018, Ramsay was elected to serve as the Most Worshipful Grand Master Mason and installed on Thursday 29th November. Lodge St. Barchan is honoured to have one of it's members attain such high office.

19th February 2019 saw the Most Worshipful Grand Master Mason returned to his roots. On 19th February, approximately 150 brethren attended a regular meeting in Lodge St. Barchan when Bro. Ramsay headed a deputation from the Grand Lodge of Scotland into his Mother Lodge.

In addition to deputations from the Grand Lodge of Scotland and the Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East, a number of brethren from Lodge Fortrose and sister lodges from Ross and Cromarty travelled down to Kilbarchan.

In a busy evening, Bro. Jonathan Hill, a Past Master of The Robertson's Lodge No. 134 and Lodge Alan Wilson No. 851 affiliated to Lodge St. Barchan, Bro. Steven Hogg was raised to the third degree. Bro. Ramsay was presented with a diploma and jewel to mark his 50 years in freemasonry.

The Installation of the Commissioned Office Bearers of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Renfrewshire East was held in Lodge Price of Wales on Saturday 19th January when Brother Neil Fraser stepped down from his role as Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master. The brethren of Lodge St Barchan would like to thank Bro. Neil for the five years he dedicated to the Province of Renfrewshire East.

The Installation of Bro. Ronald E Fraser PM 1688 and his Commission was very ably carried out by Bro. William Ramsey McGhee Most Worshipful Grand Master Mason of the Grand Lodge of Scotland. Lodge St. Barchan continues to be represented with Bro. Scott Bogle PM being installed as Substitute Grand Master.

We hope you have enjoyed this brief history of the Lodge, and the Past Masters, Office Bearers and Brethren of the Lodge have every confidence that new teams of Office Bearers and Brethren will continue to carry forward the good name of Lodge St. Barchan in the future.

Finally, a hearty vote of thanks is extended to all the brethren who assisted in bringing this history of the Lodge together.