On Tuesday, 10th January 2023, Connaught Chapter No 3573 that meets at the Masonic Hall, Redfield Road, Midsomer Norton celebrated one hundred years of working since being founded on 23rd November 1922. Because of the large number of Companions wishing to attend this special event, the meeting was moved to Frome Masonic Hall.

The Lodge room at Frome was packed with members of Connaught Chapter and their guests. The meeting was honoured by the attendance of the Grand Superintendent of the Provincial Grand Chapter of Somerset, Excellent Companion Ray Guthrie, his senior Officers, together with fifteen members of the Provincial Team.

On behalf of the Most Excellent First Grand Principal, Most Excellent Companion, HRH The Duke of Kent, the Grand Superintendent presented a Centenary Charter to the first Principal of Connaught Chapter, Excellent Companion Frank Silver.

With the help of the Provincial team, the Grand Superintendent went on to dedicate the splendid new Chapter Banner in another short but meaningful ceremony. Extracts of the history of the Chapter were given together with an interesting oration on the origins and uses of banners, especially their use in Freemasonry.

It was a very enjoyable and colourful evening, followed by an equally enjoyable and convivial festive board. Following the meal, the usual toasts were observed and congratulations afforded to the Companions of Connaught Chapter.

All Companions attending were gifted a whisky tumbler to commemorate this very enjoyable event. A very generous gesture and a reminder of a lovely evening. JPN Haxell