"Happy Memories"

Thursday 11th March saw the commemoration of the Anniversary of WBro Robert Ambrose Veever's, PProvSGW, sixty years in Freemasonry, at Limestone Rock Lodge, No. 369, at Clitheroe. In attendance was the Provincial Grand Master, RWBro Jack Price, with a Deputation comprising the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, WBro Derek Thornhill, the Past Assistant Provincial Grand Master, WBro Harry Hesmondhalgh, the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, Norman Cope, the Provincial Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies, David Bristol, the Provincial Deputy Grand Secretary, Kevin Horne and the District Chairman, Peter Hargreaves leading the District Team.

WBro Veevers with the Provincial Deputation

The Provincial Grand Master asked the assembled brethren to think about 60 years of membership, "50 years is remarkable, 60 years is a bit special".

Jack Price and Dorothy have a special affinity for Clitheroe having enjoyed two long weekends there each year over a period of 30 years. They had gotten to know the area well and it held a special place in their hearts. Remembering times past Jack reflected on all of those who have left a little spark of vitality, their contribution during their time, and left us as the custodians of their legacy. Then, to the amusement of the brethren, he also remembered nights he had been brought to masonic events in the area, but remembered little of the return journey! All together it was the joy that we share with each other that makes our happy memories - brethren that we have known, loved and cherished, members of this great Province for whom we have held affection and respect.

"Tonight", said Jack, "We are with a brother known by all of us here. He has contributed to the history of this Lodge and many others - WBro Robert Ambrose Veevers, Past Provincial Senior Grand Warden. He has a title and rank that have been justly earned in over 60 years in this great Order of ours".

Bro Veevers sat in front of the Pedestal and his son, AA Veevers, delivered a tribute. His Father was initiated on Thursday, 9th March 1950, by his Father, AE Veevers. On that night the minutes recorded the presence of 49 Lodge members and 41 visitors! He was passed on 14th September that year and raised on 11th January, 1951, eventually becoming Master in 1961. He played the organ for this and other Lodges for many years. He celebrated 50 years in the Craft with Harry Hesmondhalgh presiding, and 50 years in the Royal Arch with Harold Woodward as the Principal Officer.

As well as his love for Freemasonry he is a devout supporter of the Church. In Lodge he practised ritual to a very high standard and for many years singing formed a large part of the entertainment both in Lodge meetings and at the good spirited, smokey and lively Festive boards. Young Veevers fondly remembered nights as a boy when his father and friends would be up late into the night practicing their singing over a jar or two. He would go to bed listening to their harmony - Happy Memories.

The Provincial Grand Master gave congratulations for the wonderful picture of Freemasonry just given and how Robert Ambrose had been described as a Man, a Mason, and a bringer of joy. He then asked Derek Thornhill to read the celebratory illuminated cerftificate. Jack then presented it to Bro Veevers who was proudly led by the Provincial DC around the Lodge to acclaim from the Brethren. Before the Lodge was closed a cheque was presented in favour of the RMBI 2015 Festival, which left the PGM stuck for words, for the magnificent amount of £2015.

Jack Price, Robert Veevers and Derek Thornhill

The celebration Banquet was held at Whalley Golf Club in Whalley. The fayre included roast lamb and keylime pie, all well presented, served and enjoyed. During the toasts the Senior Warden took great pleasure toasting the Provincial Grand Master in person saying it was good to see him fit and well, and long may it continue. In his response Jack said it had been a very happy evening, full of enthusiasm around the tables - all seemed to have enjoyed a good time and it was excellent to be supported by a good vintage of Grand Officers. He talked of many worthies who do work for the Province, some unsung, but in particular the APGMs, who not only work on their patches but are often involved with other committees around the Province, all which they do with good heart and goodwill.

Festive Board at Whalley Golf Club

Harry Hesmondhalgh, Peter Hargreaves and Derek Thornhill

The Master, WBro N Baldwin, and PGM taking wine with WBro Veevers

Jack Price with Robert Ambrose Veevers

PGM with the Master

Worshipful Master with IPM, WBro M Bateman

The Provincial Grand Master toasted the health of the celebrant - "A modest character, strong in purpose who believes wholeheartedly in the teachings and workings of Freemasonry. Over 60 years he has seen magical and dreadful things, advances in healthcare, science and education. A strong citizen who we are honoured and delighted to know. A living example of someone worthy of emulation."

In response Bro Veevers talked fondly of his own early memories of Freemasonry and how he had pushed his Father to propose him as a member. Since then the time has just slipped by and he had enjoyed every minute. He enjoyed ritual and advised the brethren to study it well, understand it, learn it and do it well!

The whole event has been well organised, the Provincial Grand Master was in excellent form and the celebration was, very fittingly, a job well done!

WBro Robert Ambrose Veevers, PProvSGW