Clarke Lodge No 61 - Upcoming Historical Lecture

A meaningful moment in the Chester Freemasonry took place a couple weeks ago at Clarke Lodge No 61. R.W. Brothers Keith Campbell and Derrick Coolen had the pleasure of welcoming Ms. Jane Gardner of Dartmouth, who reached out after discovering that she is a descendant of W. Bro. Alexander Pattillo, one of the founding fathers of Chester Lodge No 9.

Jane had learned that the Lodge still holds W. Bro. Pattillo’s apron, dating back to 1784, and arrangements were made for her to visit on April 29th. She was joined by R.W. Bro. Campbell and Bro. John Chandler for an engaging and memorable visit as she viewed the historic apron and learned more about her ancestor’s role in early Chester Freemasonry.

The visit inspired further research into the Lodge’s early history, and as a result, a Historical Lecture on “The History of Freemasonry in Chester, Nova Scotia” will be presented by R.W. Brother Coolen on Thursday, May 14, 2026 (next week).

Members and visitors are encouraged to attend. It promises to be an informative and enjoyable evening for all who appreciate the heritage of our Craft.