Venturer Lodge
| LODGE: | Venturer Lodge |
|---|---|
| LODGE NO: | 7897 |
| CONSECRATED: | 1963 |
| VENUE: | Chingford Masonic Hall, Forest Approach, Station Road, Chingford. Essex E4 7AZ |
| MEETINGS: | 2nd Thursdays in January / April (Installation) / June (Unifom) / October. |
The original idea of forming a Lodge for the benefit of brethren and Scout leaders from the area near Gilwell Park (Scout Headquarters) came from W.Bro. Harold Davies supported by Bro. A. Wingrove, a District Commissioner for Chingford and an Assistant Camp Chief at Gilwell Park.
In 1961 a meeting was held to which a number of potential members were invited. In early 1963 there were 21 Founder Members listed.
It was originally hoped to name the Lodge “Gilwell Lodge” but the name “Venturer” was decided. Much of the original Lodge furnishings and regalia were contributed with some being hand-made.
The Lodge badge, which incorporates the Gilwell emblem of the Log and Axe, illustrates the close links maintained by the Lodge with Gilwell Park.
In 1970, Venturer Royal Arch Chapter was consecrated in connection with the Lodge.
Venturer is a member Lodge of the Kindred Lodges Association, an umbrella organisation that facilitates and fosters relations amongst Freemasons who are, or were, engaged in Youth Work.
The Kindred Lodges Association encourages all installed masters to membership of the Lodge of Unity Peace and Concord No. 316, – The Installed Master’s Lodge of the K L A.
Venturer Lodge No. 7897 Province of Essex
Vice-Patron — Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution
GRAND PATRON — ESSEX FESTIVAL 2022
The Lodge was consecrated at Freemasons’ Hall, London (by dispensation) by the Provincial Grand Master for Essex, R.W. Bro. The Earl of Warwick, and was sponsored by Shurmur Lodge No. 2374.
