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Freemasons
Freemasonry, one of the world's oldest and largest secular fraternal organisations. Members (generally men only) bond through fellowship, moral discipline, and charity, based on the traditions and symbols of medieval stonemasons, with the aim improving their communities. The fraternity builds on four main principles: Integrity, Friendship, Respect, and Service.
Members meet in local groups called "Lodges", which are overseen regionally by overarching "Grand Lodges". The United Grand Lodge of England (established 1813) is the governing Masonic lodge for the majority of freemasons in England and Wales, and claims to descend from the Masonic Grand Lodge formed on the 24th June 1717 at the Goose & Gridiron Tavern in London.
Freemasonry is often criticised for its secretive rituals and the closed nature and anonymity of its membership. Members take oaths to assist one another, potentially leading to "old boys' club" nepotism. On the other hand, Freemasons are known to raise significant funds for charities and local causes.
Phoenix Lodge in Sunderland, built in 1785, is the oldest surviving Freemasons' Hall in the country.
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Phoenix Lodge
- Overview About Phoenix Lodge Map Street View Freemasons' Hall located on Queen Street East, Sunderland. The hall was built in 1785, designed by John Bonner, to replace an earlier lodge …
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Chaucer Buildings, Grainger Street, Newcastle
- Overview Map Street View Nos. 53 to 61 (odd numbers), Grainger Street in Newcastle are known as the Chaucer Buildings. The Venetian Gothic style building is thought to have been …
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Phoenix Lodge
- Overview About Phoenix Lodge Map Street View Freemasons' Hall located on Queen Street East, Sunderland. The hall was built in 1785, designed by John Bonner, to replace an earlier lodge …
Co-Curate Page
Chaucer Buildings, Grainger Street, Newcastle
- Overview Map Street View Nos. 53 to 61 (odd numbers), Grainger Street in Newcastle are known as the Chaucer Buildings. The Venetian Gothic style building is thought to have been …
