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.
The lodge meeting dates for 2026 to 2030 are now available. Please save these dates in your diary to ensure you can attend as many meetings as possible. Regular attendance is an important part of lodge life and helps maintain the strength and continuity of our lodge. If you have any questions about the meeting schedule, please contact the Secretary.
From April through to October, as the evenings grow lighter and Stratford-upon-Avon begins to feel at its most sociable, members gather at a local establishment for a relaxed Thursday Evening Social. There is no ceremony, agenda or formal arrangement — simply a friendly opportunity to enjoy a glass of something refreshing, share a few stories, put the world gently to rights, and spend time in good company. Not everyone is able to attend every week, and that is very much part of its easy-going charm; members can simply come along when they can. It is especially welcoming for newer members, offering a cheerful and informal way to get to know others outside the usual Lodge setting. Details are shared through the Lodge WhatsApp group, where the next gathering place is quietly summoned like a well-kept weekly secret.
A donation of £600 was made to The Shakespeare Hospice. The Shakespeare Hospice provides specialist palliative care and support to people with life-limiting illnesses and their families across South Warwickshire. The lodge is proud to support this vital local charity.
A donation of £1,000 was made to the Salvation Army Coventry. The Salvation Army provides a wide range of community services across Coventry, including food banks, homeless support, and family services. The lodge is delighted to support their vital work in the community.
A donation of £500 was made to Fisher House UK. Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham receives injured military personnel from the UK and overseas. Fisher House UK gives service members and their families a supportive "home away from home" while loved ones receive treatment.
On the last week in September this year's Lodge Weekend was enjoyed by 24 Members, wives and friends who journeyed to Chester where we were booked into The Queen Hotel, close to the City centre. The Hotel had a lot of lovely character, good food and attentive staff and proved to be a good choice. The Queen Hotel is close to the city centre. So easy to visit the local attractions! Car parking is free at the hotel! The cost is £190 per person, including 2 nights bed and full breakfast with a private gala dinner on the Saturday night.
The Queen Hotel — our elegant home for the weekend in the heart of Chester
The historic Queen Hotel Mews — carriages and post horses for hire since the Victorian era
Chester's bustling city centre — a vibrant mix of history and modern life
The iconic Eastgate Clock — one of Chester's most photographed landmarks. Maureen Beckett under the famous Clock Tower, part of the City Walls.
Steps up to the ancient City Walls — two thousand years of history underfoot. Most of our party climbed up and walked the City Walls, which are the only complete walls in the country.
The ChesterBoat 'Mark Twain' — a leisurely cruise along the River Dee. A river cruise was the choice of some.
All aboard! The open-top river bus with Chester's famous red tour bus in the background. Or the City Sightseeing Bus.
Enjoying the River Dee boat trip — smiles all round on a fine September afternoon. Dave Sallows, Barbara Sallows and Wendy Sallows did both!
The Lodge party at the Gala Dinner — a wonderful evening together. Smiling and happy!
