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Blackpool Group of Lodges

Masonic Hall honoured with a Blue Plaque

There are many famous buildings in Blackpool that have both architectural and historical significance. The famous Blackpool Tower Ballroom and the Tower itself are prime examples. The Winter Gardens is another with its beautiful ballroom as well as the many theatres in the town where famous performers both past and present have strutted the boards.

The Blue Plaque

Now there is another famous building to add to the list - none other than the Masonic Hall in the town’s Adelaide Street! The Mayor of Blackpool, Councillor Don Clapham and Mayoress Mrs Gill Clapham performed the ceremony of unveiling a coveted Blue Plaque as Blackpool Masonic Hall took its place amongst the celebrated buildings of the resort.

Around 30 people attended to witness the event as the chair of the Civic Trust, Elaine Smith, introduced local historian and President of the Trust, Barry Shaw. Barry gave a brief explanation of the history of the building along with its context with other major buildings in the vicinity. He pointed out a little known fact that the Masonic Hall was constructed on the site of a former cow shed from St John’s school.

Pictured left to right are: Blackpool Mayor, George Holden with Mayoress Gill Clapham, Barry Shaw and Elaine Smith.

George Holden then thanked all the people who had attended and outlined the important work done by Elaine and the Trust in promoting the Masonic Hall for a Blue Plaque award as part of the Heritage Trail.

 The Mayor and Mayoress with Colin Goodwin.

Club President, Colin Goodwin and Ernie Gavan then invited the guests to view the hall’s hidden gem, the ‘Top Lodge Room’. Tea, coffee, biscuits and fresh scones were provided by hall steward Peter and his partner Pauline. Hosts and visitors spent a pleasant time in discussion widening the appreciation of the participation and involvement of Freemasonry in the community.

Special thanks were accorded to George Holden and his wife Diana, who were instrumental in getting the Blue Plaque project off the ground, overcoming many earlier problems encountered. 

Blackpool Masonic Hall will now be recognised as one of the many treasures on the Blackpool Heritage Trail for many years to come.