Old Parkonians’ celebrating a Legacy and welcoming its 100th Master
Overcoming membership challenges the Old Parkonians’ evolves into a vibrant Lodge and a respected part of Essex’s Masonic community
In 1925, Ilford County High School’s headmasters, teachers, and former pupils set out to create a legacy, founding a Masonic lodge rooted in the ethos of their school. They named it Old Parkonians’ Lodge, after the school’s association for cricket, rugby, and other sports. In its early years, the Lodge thrived as a ‘closed lodge’, exclusive to those with connections to the school. However, with membership restricted, maintaining numbers became difficult as time passed.
By 2016, membership challenges were clear, and the future of Old Parkonians’ Lodge No. 4709 appeared uncertain. Recognising the need for renewal, Tony Curtis, the Chingford Masonic Centre Manager, where the Lodge meets, collaborated with Dave Clarke and Paul Reeves to reshape the Lodge’s identity. Together, they laid out a plan to evolve Old Parkonians’ Lodge into a home for the active Essex Provincial Assistant Directors of Ceremonies (ADC), incorporating members from both Craft and Royal Arch. This transformation breathed new life into the Lodge, opening it up to ADC’s across Essex and enabling it to grow and thrive.
Fast forward to 2024, and Old Parkonians’ Lodge, now the ADC Lodge, has expanded from just 12 members to a vibrant assembly of over 50. The Lodge has become a significant asset within the Province of Essex, playing a key role in the Pathway programme, supporting team structures, and coordinating the Visiting Officer scheme. As such, the Lodge’s quality of ritual work and dedication to Masonic principles have earned it considerable respect and prominence within the Province.
On Saturday, 26 October 2024, history was made as Tony Curtis was installed as the 100th Worshipful Master of Old Parkonians’ Lodge. The ceremony, conducted with meticulous attention by Dave Clarke, was attended by over 60 members, marking a notable milestone on the Lodge’s journey toward its centenary celebration in June 2025. This significant moment, celebrated by all present, was a testament to the Lodge’s resilience and the collective efforts to sustain its relevance and vibrancy.
The following festive board held a palpable atmosphere, blending pride with nostalgia. As the Lodge looks towards its 100th year, the overwhelming sentiment was one of reverence for its founders and past masters, whose legacy is now assured by the Lodge’s transformation and growth. The future looks bright for Old Parkonians’ Lodge, a once small ‘closed lodge’ that has emerged as a prominent and respected part of Essex’s Masonic community.
Photos
Top: The 100th Master, Tony Curtis surrounded by the officers and members of the Old Parkonians’ Lodge
Bottom (L-R): Tony Curtis, Dave Clark and Michael Dougall
