Over 300 Years of Heritage
Our History
From medieval stonemasons to a modern brotherhood — the story of Freemasonry in England and the founding of Peace Lodge No. 3936.
The Origins of Freemasonry
Freemasonry's roots lie in the traditions of the medieval stonemasons who built the great cathedrals and castles of Europe. These skilled craftsmen formed guilds to protect their trade secrets, train apprentices, and support one another. Over centuries, these operative lodges gradually admitted non-stonemasons — gentlemen, scholars, and professionals — who were drawn to the fraternity's moral teachings and fellowship.
The earliest documented evidence of a non-operative Mason being initiated dates to 1646, when the antiquary Elias Ashmole recorded his admission into a lodge in Warrington. By the early 18th century, speculative Freemasonry — focused on moral philosophy rather than actual stonemasonry — had become firmly established.
On St John's Day, 24 June 1717, four London lodges gathered at the Goose and Gridiron Tavern in St Paul's Churchyard and declared themselves a Grand Lodge — the first of its kind in the world. This was the birth of organised Freemasonry as we know it today.
The 1723 Constitutions, compiled by James Anderson, set out revolutionary principles for the age: religious tolerance in a world of religious conflict, meritocracy at a time when birth determined success, high standards of civility, and commitment to education and self-improvement. These Enlightenment values attracted men from all walks of life and helped Freemasonry spread rapidly across Britain and the world.
Freemasonry in Yorkshire & Middlesbrough
The Province of Yorkshire North and East Ridings is one of 47 provinces within England and Wales. Its history stretches back to 1739, when the first Provincial Grand Master for Yorkshire was appointed. In 1817, the Province was divided into West Riding and North & East Ridings — a logical split reflecting the demographic changes of the Industrial Revolution.
Freemasonry first took root on Teesside when a lodge was warranted in Stockton-on-Tees in 1756. However, it was not until 14 December 1852 that the North York Lodge No. 602 was constituted as the first lodge in Middlesbrough, meeting in an upper room at the Station Hotel on Cleveland Terrace.
Middlesbrough's rapid industrial growth — driven by the River Tees, ironstone in the Cleveland Hills, and the entrepreneurial spirit of Bolckow and Vaughan — brought a steady stream of men seeking fellowship and moral guidance. Freemasons Hall on Marton Road opened in 1861 and served as the home of Middlesbrough's Masons for over a century until its demolition in 1975 to make way for the A66. Since then, lodges have met at the Roman Road Masonic Hall.
The Story of Peace Lodge No. 3936
Peace Lodge No. 3936 was founded in 1919, in the aftermath of the First World War. The name "Peace" was chosen deliberately — a testament to the hope and relief felt by the brethren as the world emerged from the most devastating conflict it had ever known. The lodge was consecrated under the United Grand Lodge of England and has met continuously for over a century.
From its earliest days, Peace Lodge has been characterised by a strong commitment to charity and community service. The lodge's Benevolent Fund (Charity Commission No. 208192) was established to support distressed brethren, their widows, and their children, as well as contributing to wider masonic and non-masonic charitable causes.
In 1998, W.Bro John Hemy established what would become one of Peace Lodge's most cherished traditions — the Annual Charity Walk. Each year, brethren and their families walk a scenic route through the Yorkshire countryside, raising money for local charities. The walk celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2023 with a route from Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey.
Today, Peace Lodge continues to thrive at Roman Road Masonic Hall, meeting on the third Friday of each month from September to June. We welcome men from all backgrounds who share our values of integrity, friendship, respect, and service.
Key Milestones
A Timeline of Our Heritage
Four London lodges meet at the Goose and Gridiron Tavern to form the first Grand Lodge of England on St John's Day, 24 June.
The Constitutions of the Freemasons published, pioneering principles of religious tolerance, meritocracy, and self-improvement.
The 'Moderns' and 'Ancients' Grand Lodges unite to form the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE).
The Province of Yorkshire is divided into West Riding, and North & East Ridings — our Province is born.
The North York Lodge No. 602 becomes the first Masonic lodge in Middlesbrough, meeting at the Station Hotel.
Freemasons Hall on Marton Road, Middlesbrough opens — home to local Masons for over a century.
Ferrum Lodge No. 1848 established as the second lodge in Middlesbrough, reflecting the town's iron industry.
Peace Lodge No. 3936 is founded at the close of the Great War — a symbol of hope, brotherhood, and peace.
The original Marton Road hall is demolished for the A66. Middlesbrough lodges move to Roman Road Masonic Hall.
Peace Lodge banner presented by A.G. Strother, a symbol of our identity and heritage.
The Annual Charity Walk is established by W.Bro John Hemy, becoming a beloved Peace Lodge tradition.
The 25th Anniversary Charity Walk takes a scenic route from Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey, continuing our tradition of service.
Be Part of Our Continuing Story
For over a century, Peace Lodge has welcomed men who seek to better themselves and serve their community. Your chapter awaits.
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