Local historian highlights origins of Essex Royal Arch Freemasonry during Colchester talk

Local Colchester historian Sharon Mooney was the guest speaker at St Giles Masonic Centre on Friday 16 January, where she delivered a fascinating presentation on the history of four properties in the local area. The talk followed a regular meeting of Abbeygate Chapter of Royal Arch Masons and was attended by members, their wives and partners.

One of the highlights of the presentation was Sharon Mooney’s account of The Scarletts, a property with a direct connection to the origins of Royal Arch Freemasonry in Essex. The first owner’s son, His Honour Judge Frederick Adolphus Philbrick QC, was a founder of the Provincial Grand Chapter of Essex in 1883 and served as its first Grand Superintendent, a role he held until his death in 1910.

Born in 1835, Philbrick was the eldest son of Frederick Blomfield Philbrick and went on to become Recorder of Colchester from 1870, a position he held for many years. Beyond his legal career, he was also a pioneer in stamp collecting and a founder and President of the Royal Philatelic Society. His Masonic service was equally significant, as he also served as Deputy Provincial Grand Master of Essex Freemasons from 1880 to 1898.

The talk provided members with a rare insight into the local roots of Essex Royal Arch Freemasonry, bringing to life the people and places that helped shape the Province in its earliest years and highlighting Colchester’s role in that history.

In appreciation of the presentation, the Royal Arch Freemasons of Abbeygate Chapter presented Sharon Mooney with a cheque for £300 for her chosen charity, the registered local charity North Essex Support Team.

The event was organised by Arthur Cooke, who received warm praise from members. He said:
“It was a thoroughly enjoyable day, with a great meeting and a fascinating talk. Although we have two more meetings this year, members are already looking ahead to preparing for our celebratory Centenary Meeting in January 2027.”

-ENDS-

Photos:

Sharon Mooney, local historian,
Abbeygate Chapter lunch at St Giles Masonic Centre with Sharon Mooney, 3^rdfrom left, as principal guest
His Honour Judge Frederick Philbrick QC - courtesy Alchetron