The centenary meeting and festive board were held on Thursday 23rd June 2022 at 4.15 pm in Stratford-upon-Avon Town Hall in Sheep Street. A prestigious venue in the heart of the historic market town. It was attended by 65 members and visitors.
Members and guests gathered for a memorable centenary meeting and festive board to mark this historic milestone. The occasion combined reflection, celebration, and fellowship, honouring 100 years of achievement while looking ahead to the lodge's next chapter to secure its lasting success. The event also highlighted key moments in the lodge's rich history and recognised the invaluable contributions of past and present members. It was a reminder of the strong foundations on which the lodge was built and the importance of preserving its traditions for future generations.
The choice of venue was especially fitting: David Garrick Lodge No. 4243 had been consecrated there in June 1921, making the Town Hall a meaningful setting for this landmark occasion.
The Town Hall itself has a long and eventful history. Built during the reign of Charles I, it has endured serious damage, including a gunpowder explosion in 1643. Just over a century later, the building was demolished and rebuilt the following year. Major alterations in 1863 shaped much of the Town Hall as it appears today.
The evening was hosted by the members and the then Worshipful Master of David Garrick Lodge, W. Bro. Alan Walker and his acting Senior and Junior Wardens W Bro PE Sallows and W Bro D Coull respectively. Bro. Alan, Wardens and attendees were joined by Right Worshipful Bro. Philip Hall, Provincial Grand Master of Warwickshire and other Provincial Officers. Right Worshipful Bro. Philip Hall gave an address to the Brethren over the purpose of the meeting and then requested that Provincial Officers - W. Bro. JS Amies occupy the Senior Wardens Chair and W. Bro. TA Siddall occupy the Junior Wardens chair for the ensuing ceremony.
Right Worshipful Bro. Philip Hall presented the brethren of David Garrick Lodge with a personal Centenary jewel. After which the lodge WM and Wardens resumed their rightful positions.
The lodge business ended in a very interesting talk given by W Bro K Beckett on the foundation and history of the David Garrick Lodge No 4243.
Following the centenary meeting, members, guests and visitors dined and enjoyed a celebratory 4 course dinner in a warm and convivial atmosphere. The evening renewed friendships, encouraged the sharing of experiences, and brought together members and guests from different generations in recognition of this remarkable achievement.
A cheque for £1000 was presented to Right Worshipful Bro. Philip Hall PGM as a contribution to the 2023 Provincial Festival which the Right Worshipful Bro. Philip Hall was extremely appreciative and thanked the members and visitors for their generosity.
Overall, the centenary event was a fitting tribute to the lodge's past and an inspiring reminder of the opportunities ahead. It honoured the lodge's heritage, celebrated its present, and looked forward with confidence to the future.
