579St Bryde

The Squaremen.

DEC 2003: 

Recently a Brother asked about an unusual plate that features in our Lodge display cabinet. The plate was donated to the Lodge by the late Bro. Adam Lilly who was Tyler of our Lodge for many years. 

He was a member of The Squaremen and also left the Lodge his Apron and Certificate.

But what do we know of this unusual Order? Well it was an Operative Order until around the middle of last century; since when it has assumed the mantle of a Speculative Order. 

Scottish Incorporations of Squaremen are open to all trades which use the Square in their work. Thus this includes architects, draughtsmen, carpenters, blacksmiths and other metal workers and of course stone masons. The rituals of the Order, written in Scots are based on those which members of the operative guilds took at the termination of their apprenticeship in order to become a full member of the guild. The ceremony is thus conducted in two parts. 

In the first of which the candidate is tested on his skill and ability, in order to prove that he is a fit and proper person to be admitted to membership of the Order. 

The second is the actual admission ceremony, during which the secrets of the Order are disclosed.

The Order of Squaremen is controlled by The Grand Shed in Edinburgh.

All the Sheds are in Scotland with the exception of Wokingham Shed No. 11. This is generally accepted as a one off as it seems doubtful if The Grand Shed will erect any further Sheds outside Scotland. The qualification for admission is five years as a Master Mason and to be a Mark Master Mason. The Officers are Worthy Deacon, The Auld Deacon (Immediate Past Deacon), The Sub Deacon, Boxmaister, Treasurer, Captain O` The Gaird, Physician, Musician, Almoner, Limmer, Steward, Piper, Drummer, Janitor. 

The insignia comprises, A Brat (or rough leather apron - see the Foyer Display Cabinet.) The Order has an optional uniform, comprising brown jacket, yellow waistcoat and blue trousers. Each member has his own working tools which he has to bring to every meeting. 

The Order is enjoyable and raises large sums for Charity.