Masonry at Guy’s Cliffe
Back in 1968 there were a number of lodges based at the Masonic Hall in Little Park Street Coventry and due to local redevelopment alongside the number of lodges out growing the building a decision was made to temporarily relocate a number of lodges to the Allesley Hotel in Coventry for a period of time. Six lodges looked for a more permanent home: Wyley, St George’s, Three Spires, St John’s, Covantrian and St Catherine’s.
At the start of 1974, St George’s were offered the lease of the ancient 15th century, Chapel of St Mary Magdalene at Guy’s Cliffe in Warwick, and so all 6 lodges undertook the task to convert the chapel to a Masonic Temple. There was no heating, lighting, water or toilet facilities so substantial work was required to make the building fit for purpose ready for the beginning of October. Since there was no dining facilities the Saxon Mill was used which was not ideal. By October 1976 a dining room and proper kitchen facilities had been set up. With more improvements required to the Guy’s Cliffe complex, the required funds were raised by The Friends of Guy’s Cliffe running numerous events to help redevelop certain parts of the site to make more usable.
Whilst there were many brethren involved with getting the site fit for purpose who provided many hours of labour, funds and advice. There were a number who must be called out for special mention:
- Aldwyn Porter – Owner of the Guy’s Cliffe estate
- John Smith – Architect and ruler of the enterprise
- Bob Hall, A Bates and J Austin who contributed a substantial amount to the overall project in time, expertise and effort
Guy’s Cliffe Lodge 8874
In early 1978 following 2 lodges moving back to Coventry and due to demand, a new lodge was looked at to be formed. Following a meeting of interested brethren on 25th February 1978 and successful petition Guy’s Cliffe lodge was consecrated on 1st June 1979. The 30 founders of the lodge representing 24 other lodges from 11 different provinces under the English, Scottish & Irish Constitutions typified the bond of friendship known to Freemasons.
Guy's Cliffe Lodge No. 8874 