With the start of a new Masonic year, months of preparation by Fleetwood Masonic Club secretary, Peter Dunn, culminated in Fleetwood Masonic Hall welcoming over 100 members of the public as part of Heritage Open Days.
Freemasonry has a long and proud history on the Fylde coast, recently celebrating 200 years of presence in the region. The first lodge in Fleetwood, Hesketh Lodge No 950, was consecrated in 1863 and named after Peter Hesketh, who had earlier commissioned renowned architect Decimus Burton to design the railway and early buildings of the port in 1836.
Initially, Fleetwood’s Masonic lodges met in local pubs and hotels, including the historic North Euston Hotel. By the 1950s, the need for a permanent home became pressing due to unsatisfactory conditions in some venues. Post-war enthusiasm for Freemasonry led to long waiting lists and it was anticipated that more lodges would be needed in Fleetwood.
Number 32 The Esplanade, originally a private residence and later an orphanage, was purchased after Hesketh Lodge received a £300 legacy from a former member. A deposit of £240 secured the building and major structural alterations followed.
The hall was consecrated on Thursday, 22 March 1956. So many brethren wished to attend that the celebratory banquet had to be relocated to the Marine Hall later that day, a testament to the strength of the local Masonic community.
Despite heavy rain on Saturday, a steady stream of visitors arrived, some seeking shelter, others eager to learn. Sunday proved to be the busiest day, with enthusiastic guests exploring the hall and engaging with members.
Throughout the two days members from both Fleetwood and Cleveleys Masonic Halls worked together to ensure the event’s success. Volunteers included North Fylde Group Chairman John Cross, club chairman Jim Gregson, community engagement officer Russell Forsyth, and guides Peter Walker, Phil and James Drake and not forgetting Peter Dunn. All of whom warmly welcomed and informed visitors throughout the weekend and without whom the weekend would not have been such a memorable event.