History of the Masonic Hall
Gazette & News, Saturday 7th May 1898
"In the Fylde on Saturday"
Memorial Tablet unveiled and Foundation Stones Laid"
It is a long time since there was anything like so large a gathering of Masonic Brethren in Blackpool as was the case on Saturday, when the visit of Lord Skelmersdale, P.G.W., P.Pr.G.W. to take the leading part in three interesting ceremonials, was accorded all the honours of the Masonic Craft. The proceedings were arranged jointly by the W.M.'s of the seven Lodges in Blackpool, Poulton and Fleetwood, and not only were these particular Lodges well represented but there was a large attendance from other Masonic bodies in the Fylde and other parts of Lancashire. The three hundred or more brethren who attended certainly made a fine display. They were uniformly attired in dark morning clothes and silk hats... though we would not be so bold as to say that all the "toppers" were of this century's make... with Craft insignia, and Craft or Royal Arch jewels only. Fortunately, the weather was more favourable, and Barnum and Bailey's "greatest show on earth" could hardly have attracted more attention than did the Masons in their procession to and from St. Paul's Church and the site of the new Masonic Hall. Who will number themselves among the detractors of Freemasonry when the Craft can turn out such a gathering of good looking, prosperous, and paunchy gentlemen as promenaded our streets on Saturday afternoon? The principle figure in the ceremonials was Lord Skelmersdale, son of the Earl of Lathom, Provincial Grand Master, and her Majesty's Lord Chamberlain.
He is a noble looking gentleman, standing at least six feet high, and carries himself in a manner that impresses one that he has military training. His age we would take to be about 36, his complexion is light, a handsome moustache adding to attractive and clear-cut features. He possesses a rich baritone voice, clear and distinct, and the manner in which he performed the various ceremonies was most pleasing.