On Saturday, 20 June 2026, Essex Freemasonry will mark a historic milestone: 250 years since the appointment of the Province’s first Provincial Grand Master. This celebration will unite members, families, and guests in a Province-wide event that honours our past while looking confidently to the future.
The central celebrations will take place simultaneously at four major centres — Howard Hall (Braintree), Saxon Hall (Southend), St Giles (Colchester), and The Square (Upminster). Linked digitally, these events will share identical menus, entertainment, and timing, creating one unified anniversary experience across the Province.
These dinners will be complemented by a programme of Open Days in autumn 2026, when centres across Essex will welcome the public to explore Freemasonry’s history and role in modern life. To preserve this moment in history, a commemorative 250-year book is being produced.
Alongside the celebrations, Essex Freemasonry will launch the Essex 250 charitable initiative — a £425,000 commitment to five local causes, including Headway, Essex First Responders, Essex Wildlife Trust, and Teddies for Loving Care. Funded through Provincial resources, merchandise sales, and Lodge contributions such as the “£250 for 250” programme, this initiative will leave a lasting legacy of generosity and impact.
What we will do
- Deliver a unified Province-wide anniversary celebration across four venues.
- Host public Open Days to share our history and strengthen community ties.
- Publish a commemorative 250-year history of Essex Freemasonry.
- Raise and distribute £425,000 to five major local causes under the Essex 250 banner.
Success will mean
- A shared sense of pride and unity across Essex Freemasonry.
- Greater public awareness of our history, values, and contribution to society.
- A lasting charitable legacy through Essex 250 donations.
- A celebration that inspires the next generation of Freemasons.