Timeline

Timeline Introduction

On 3 November 2022, during the Annual Visitation of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Aberdeenshire East to Lodge St. Olaf, Bro. Gordon Mackay P.M. delivered a presentation reflecting on the Lodge’s life and activities over several decades.

Rather than performing the all to common mock degree, an different approach influenced by the disruption to lodge activities caused by COVID-19, Bro. Mackay presented a retrospective account beginning with his own initiation in 1981. Drawing on lodge records and personal recollections, he highlighted key events, traditions, and moments of fellowship that helped shape the Lodge’s character.

For many brethren, particularly newer members, the history shared that evening was unfamiliar and provided a valuable connection to the Lodge’s recent past. Since then, Lodge St. Olaf has experienced renewed growth, welcoming many new initiates and enjoying a revival in activity and engagement.

The timeline that follows expands upon that original presentation, preserving its historical reflections while incorporating decade-by-decade listings of every member who has joined the Lodge since its formation in 1919, as well as more recent developments in the continuing story of the Lodge.

Lodge Branding Update – 2026

For more than four decades, Lodge St. Olaf has been proudly represented by its now familiar Viking logo—an emblem that has become instantly recognisable to members and visitors alike. Rich in character and symbolism, the design reflects both the heritage and identity of the Lodge, serving as a unifying mark across generations.

2026 – Trowel Capture

In the far northern reaches of the realm, where the grey seas of the east crash against the stonebound shores of Peterhead, there came upon a night of storm and shadow a band of seafarers – yet not by ship did they arrive, but by the hard road over land, through wind and rain unrelenting. From the halls of…

2026 – Burns Night

In the turning of the year, when winter still held the lands of Buchan in a firm and glittering grasp, there came a night long spoken of in hope and quiet planning, and afterwards remembered with warmth by all who were there. It was on Saturday, the seventeenth day of January in the year 2026, that the Brethren of St. Olaf No. 1188 gathered not in secrecy nor in shadowed chambers, but in open fellowship, to hold a banquet worthy of song and story, in…

2025 – Trowel Capture

On the evening of the seventeenth day of December, in the waning light of the year 2025, there arose a stirring in the north that few beyond the Craft would mark, yet whose echoes shall long be heard in the halls of Lodge St Olaf. For on that night, an intrepid delegation of eight of St Olaf’s finest Freemasons gathered, cloaked not in secrecy but in purpose, to set forth upon a noble quest: the capture of the fabled Travelling Trowel.

2025 – Remembrance Day

On Sunday 9th November 2025, the Lodge was proudly represented at the annual Remembrance Day Service held at Cruden Parish Church. Right Worshipful Master Bro. Gordon Daly led a distinguished party of ten brethren, who assembled at 10:20am before entering the church together and taking their seats for the service.

2025 – The Perth Sabbatical

The Great Sabbatical of St. Olaf – A tale of fortunes lost and lessons learned! In the summer of the Year of our Lord 2025, under skies both fair and fickle, the brethren of Lodge St. Olaf did set forth upon a journey spoken of in whispers and recorded in scroll and song — The Sabbatical. No common errand this, but a hallowed tradition marked by feasting, folly, and the forging of bonds unbreakable. What follows is the true and noble account, set down in reverence, mirth, and memory, so that it may be told beside firelight in years yet to dawn.

2025 – Bro. Gordon Mackay designs new website for PGLAE

In March 2025, the Provincial Grand Lodge of Aberdeenshire East (PGLAE) proudly unveiled a newly redesigned and relaunched website, marking an important step forward in how the Province communicates with brethren and the wider public. The project was undertaken by Bro. Gordon Mackay, Past Master of Lodge St. Olaf No. 1188, whose well-established reputation for website development made him the natural choice to lead the initiative.

2025 – Burns Supper

In the heart of winter’s chill, upon the seventeenth eve of January in the year 2025, the brethren of Lodge St Olaf No. 1188 did gather beneath their hallowed roof, there to pay homage to Scotland’s immortal bard, Robert Burns. With mirth and fellowship unshaken by the season’s icy grasp, they assembled in great number – brethren, honored guests, and friends alike – all drawn together for an evening that would long be sung of in their halls.

2024 / 2026 – Bro. Gordon Daly RWM

On the 12th day of December in the Year of Light 2024, within the hallowed walls of Lodge St. Olaf, a great and joyous occasion unfolded. Trevor the Worshipful, having led with distinction for two fruitful years, laid down the gavel of governance, and in his stead arose a new leader—the stalwart and seasoned Day-Late the Worshipful, known to the world beyond the Lodge as Gordon Daly.

2024 – Remembrance Day

It was a somber yet proud occasion when Trevor the Worshipful and his loyal band of renegades assembled once more. On the crisp morning of November 10th, 2024, the village of Cruden Bay, its air tinged with salt from the nearby North Sea, played host to the annual Remembrance Day service at the historic Cruden Parish Church.

2024 – The Fellowship’s Pilgrimage

On the 21st day of June in the year 2024, beneath a brightening sky that heralded the height of spring, the brethren of Lodge St. Olaf assembled for a quest of both enlightenment and camaraderie. Their destination lay far to the south—the grand halls of the Grand Lodge of Scotland in…

2024 – Burns Supper

The 25th day of January in the year 2024 dawned cold and clear over Cruden Bay, a fitting backdrop for the gathering of the Brethren and friends of Lodge St. Olaf 1188. They had assembled for a purpose most noble: to honor the birth of Scotland’s bard and brother Mason, Robert Burns, with an evening that would soon enter the annals of Lodge history as a night of unparalleled merriment, fellowship, and generosity.

2023 – Remembrance Day

On a somber morning of the 12th of November, in the Year of our Craft 2023, the brethren of Lodge St. Olaf gathered in reverent unity to honor the fallen. Under skies heavy with the weight of history, they made their way to Cruden Old Parish Church, where the hallowed echoes of prayers and hymns rose in solemn tribute to those who gave their all in defense of freedom and peace.

2023 – Burns Supper

After a silence spanning several winters—a silence wrought by the shadow of a great pestilence known to men as Covid-19—the brethren of Lodge St. Olaf 1188 gathered once more to pay homage to Scotland’s bard, Brother Robert Burns. On the frosty eve of Thursday, the 26th of January, the Lodge Rooms of Cruden…

2022 / 2024 – Bro. Trevor Cooke RWM

In the deepening shadows of the first of December 2022, the brethren of Lodge St. Olaf 1188 gathered in solemn assembly for a night destined to enter the annals of their storied history. The fires of fellowship burned bright, and the air was rich with anticipation, for on this evening, Brother Trevor Cooke, a stalwart of the Craft, was to ascend to the Chair of King Solomon, taking his place as Right Worshipful Master.

2022 – Remembrance Day

In the waning days of autumn, beneath a sky of solemn gray, two valiant brothers of Lodge St. Olaf prepared to honor the memory of those who had journeyed before them into the shadowed lands of history. It was Remembrance Day, a time for reflection, gratitude, and the solemn promise never to forget.

2022 – The Miles Tae Dundee

The Road & The Miles Tae Dundee A Journey to the Tay: The Fellowship’s Coastal Quest In the Year of Light 2022, on the 11th day of June, five brethren of Lodge St. Olaf set forth on a quest both noble and convivial, their destination the storied city of Dundee upon the banks of the River Tay. With hearts alight and fellowship strong, the company began their annual sabbatical, an occasion marked by camaraderie, discovery, and the raising of glasses in mutual cheer. This year, the call of the Tay, with its shimmering waters and the promise of good company, guided their steps.

2021 – Remembrance Day

W.S.W. Trevor Cooke represented the Lodge at the Remembrance Day Service held a Cruden Bay Parish Church on Sunday 14th November 2021. An ex-serviceman himself Bro. Cooke served for 9 years in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers with Postings at; 5 Airborne Brigade, Aldershot 39 Heavy Regiment, Royal Artillery Sennelager Germany Operation Granby- Gulf war 1, Middle East 4 Armed Workshop Detmold Germany HMS Rooke Gibralter

2020 / 2026 – 18 New Members so far!

The following list records the eighteen Brethren who have joined Lodge St Olaf during the present decade, from 2020 to 2026, comprising fifteen initiates and three affiliates. Although four years remain before the decade is complete, these figures provide a snapshot of the Lodge’s recent growth and continuing activity.

2019 / 2022 – Bro. Ewan Mackay RWM

The Rise of a Young Master: The Tale of Bro. Ewan Mackay In the wintry twilight of December 5th, 2019, the Lodge of St. Olaf bore witness to a moment both rare and remarkable, a tale destined to be recounted in its halls for many years to come. For on this day, Bro. Ewan Mackay, a scion of the Craft, ascended to the Chair of King Solomon, becoming one of Scotland’s youngest reigning Right Worshipful Masters.

2019 – Centenary Celebrations

Brother George Hall had the distinct honor of serving as Right Worshipful Master (R.W.M.) during the pivotal period leading up to and including the celebration of the Lodge’s Centenary year. This historic milestone became the defining event of his tenure, leaving an indelible mark on the Lodge’s legacy.

2017 / 2019 – Bro. George Hall RWM

2015 – Elgin Sabattacal

The annual sabbatical of Lodge St. Olaf in 2015 proved to be another resounding success, with members enjoying a convivial weekend away in the historic Morayshire town of Elgin. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, rich heritage, and excellent hospitality, Elgin provided the perfect backdrop for a relaxing and sociable gathering of brethren.

2015-2017 – Bro. Gordon Daly RWM

Bro. Gordon Daly was installed as RWM of his Mother Lodge in 2015.

2013 / 2015 -Bro. Gordon Mackay RWM

Bro. Gordon Mackay was installed into the Chair of King Solomon for a second time. His primary motivation was to support the Lodge by allowing office bearers progressing toward the East to gain the experience needed to one day preside. Equally important, however, was a personal milestone: his son Ewan was about to begin his journey in Freemasonry, and this second term gave Gordon the privilege of occupying the chair as his son advanced through his three degrees.

2010 / 2013 – Bro. Russell Syme RWM

2010 / 2019 – 14 New Members

The following list records the fourteen Brethren who joined Lodge St Olaf during the decade of the 2010s, comprising eleven initiates and three affiliates. Although smaller in number than in some earlier decades, these new members continued the steady tradition of men seeking membership within the Lodge.

2008 / 2010 – Bro. Barrie Harper RWM

Barrie Harper was installed as Right Worshipful Master of Lodge St Olaf in December 2008. Barrie has been an active member of the Lodge since the 1980’s and was a regular crew member on the Lodge entries for the Ythan Raft Race. Barrie was also a key participant in the first Speyside Way walk during the spring of 1989 and features prominently in the short…

2007 – Oktoberfest

In 2007, a small but spirited delegation from Lodge St Olaf Brethren set off on an unforgettable journey to Germany to experience the world-famous Oktoberfest. This annual celebration, known for its lively atmosphere, traditional Bavarian culture, and of course, its iconic beer, provided the perfect opportunity for the group to immerse themselves in the heart of Munich’s festivities.

2007 – Lodge Dance

2007 – Portmahomack

In 2007 the Lodge Sabbatical found its way to Portmahomack in Ross Shire. A group of hardy souls from the Lodge had a great weekend of walking, eating and drinking and the gallery below captures much of that.

2007 – Burns Supper

2006 / 2008 – Bro. Neil Daniel RWM

2005 – Knoydart

The St Olaf Possee revisited Knoydart during the early summer of 2005. The group was blessed with fantastic weather and an almost midge free time which was as pleasurable an experience as it was an unusual occurrence at this time of year.

2005 – Arran

Meticulous planning and detailed organisation from the collective brainpower of company directors and captains of industry must have assured a flawless adventure to Arran. Arrangements saw 3 of the team choose motorbikes as the preferred mode of transport, a further 5 looked forward to their journey in Kenny’s wonderfully appointed motor home and the final 2 team members traveled in style in a Jaguar XKR. The team was scheduled to depart from the Killie at 09:00 hrs, plenty of time to make the…

2005 – Nairn

In 2005 Lodge members and their families took part in a caravan/camping weekend at Nairn. A fun-filled weekend of bar-b-ques and games, and plenty of ‘grown up’ refreshments resulted in a most enjoyable trip. The campers were accommodated in a range of options from caravans and motorhomes to small tents, and a sense of the fun and games enjoyed by all can be seen in the gallery below.

2005 – Lodge Renovation Project

When Bro. Ewan Robertson was installed as Right Worshipful Master of Lodge St. Olaf, one of his primary goals during his term in office was to see the Lodge Rooms refurbished. It had been some 20 years since they had last been decorated and they were in need of more than a lick of paint.

2005 – Wengen

Brothers Mark and Andy Dunn, Gordon Mackay and Neil Daniel headed off to Switzerland in 2025 for the Lodge trip.

2004 / 2006 – Bro. Ewan Robertson RWM

Installation of Bro. Ewan Robertson – December 2005 In December 2005, Bro. Ewan Robertson was installed into the Chair of King Solomon as Right Worshipful Master of Lodge St. Olaf No. 1188. His installation marked the beginning of a particularly active and productive period in the life of the Lodge.

2004 – Knoydart

Inverie On the 5th June 2004, 9 of the Lodge members went to the pub! What’s so unusual about I hear you say? Well, this particular pub is the Old Forge and according to the Guinness Book of Records, it is the most remote pub in Britain!

2004 – The Alexander Brothers

A memorable evening of top-tier entertainment unfolded at the Red House Hotel in Cruden Bay, where the renowned Scottish duo, The Alexanders Brothers, took center stage. Known for their exceptional musical talents and timeless performances, the brothers delighted an eager crowd with a mix of traditional Scottish melodies and their signature charm.

2004 – Zel-Um-Zee

2004 – Burns Supper

Members and friends of Lodge St. Olaf No. 1188 gathered in great numbers for the Lodge’s 2004 Burns Supper, held at the welcoming surroundings of the Buchanness Hotel. The evening proved to be one of the highlights of the Lodge’s social calendar, with the event selling out well in advance and a full house assembled to celebrate Scotland’s national bard, Robert Burns.

2002 / 2004 – Bro. Mark Dunn RWM

2002 – Lodge Website Launch

In 2002, at a time when many organisations were only beginning to explore the possibilities of the internet, Lodge St Olaf No.1188 took a pioneering step that would mark a small but significant milestone in the digital history of Freemasonry in the North-East of Scotland.

2002 – Braemar Walk

.The Lodge has ventured to Braemar on several occasions over the past few years. Initially intended to be skiing weekend, but since we never get any snow up here when you need it, the weekend inevitably gravitates around the local hostelries where the crack is always of the finest quality.

2000 / 2002 – Bro. Bill Murray RWM

2000 – School Uses Lodge Buildings

2000 / 2009 – 27 New Members

The following list records the twenty-seven Brethren who joined Lodge St Olaf during the decade of the 2000s, comprising twenty-six initiates and one affiliate. As the Lodge entered the early years of the twenty-first century, it continued to welcome new members who were drawn to the enduring principles and fellowship of Freemasonry.

1999 – Bro. Jim Stewart installed as Provincial Grand Master

Past Provincial Grand Master of Aberdeenshire East and Past Master of Lodge St. Olaf No. 1188 Brother James “Jim” Stewart is remembered as one of the most distinguished members of Lodge St. Olaf No. 1188, whose dedication to Freemasonry brought honour not only to his Mother Lodge but also to the wider Province of Aberdeenshire East.

1998 / 2000 – Bro. Jim Conner RWM

1996 / 1998 – Bro. Jim Taylor RWM

Jim Taylor became an affiliate member of Lodge St. Olaf in the 1980s, his Mother Lodge being Forbes 67 in Rosehearty. From the moment he joined, Jim became an integral part of the vibrant and dynamic 1980s cohort that worked tirelessly to ensure Lodge St. Olaf remained a relevant and welcoming space for the young men of the village and their families. His contributions helped to shape the Lodge as a cornerstone of community life during that transformative era.

1995 – Ythan Raft Race

The Spirit of St Olaf The Spirit of St. Olaf raft marked the final outing of the lodge in the Ythan The summer of 1995 marked a pivotal moment in the history of the Ythan Raft Race, as Lodge St. Olaf entered its final years of participation. After dominating the competition and winning top prizes for nine consecutive years, the Lodge’s entries had become a staple of the event. However, that year, something extraordinary happened that would elevate the race to new heights.

1994 / 1996 – Bro. Gordon Mackay RWM

1994 – 75th Anniversary Dance

Office Bearers and Brethtrn of Lodge St Olaf who attended. Left to Right D.M. Bro. Gordon Mackay, Bro. David Goodwin, Bro. Mark Dunn, R.W.M. Bro. Derek Clark, Bro. Jim Conner, P.M. Bro. John Hastie, Bro. Tom Petrie, Bro. Jock Warrander, P.M. Bro. Fred Warrander, P.M. Bro. Jimmy Stewart, Bro. Doug Sheal, Bro. Kenny Melvine, Bro Ewan Robertson, P.M. Bro. Jim Gardiner

1994 – Ythan Raft Race

A Man Called Horace Over the years, Lodge St. Olaf has been fortunate to count several talented entertainers among its members. In the early 1990s, Lodge members Jim Gardiner and Gordon Mackay performed as a novelty band called “A Man Called Horace.” Their musical exploits became the inspiration for one of the Lodge’s most memorable Ythan Raft Race entries, combining their flair for performance with their knack for creative design.

1993 – Ythan Raft race

The Cruden Bay City Glitter Band The Ythan Raft Races were always a highlight for Lodge St. Olaf members and their families, offering camaraderie and entertainment on race day. However, the lead-up to the event often proved just as enjoyable, filled with laughter, creativity, and a fair dose of mischief. A big part of the pre-race excitement involved the Lodge issuing humorous press releases to local newspapers, such as the Buchanie and the Ellon Times. These publications, always supportive of community spirit, enthusiastically shared the Lodge’s whimsical antics, adding to the buzz around the event.

1992 / 1994 – Bro. Derek Clark RWM

1992 – Creation of The St. Olaf Distinguished Service Medal

The St. Olaf Jewel: A Legacy of Distinction and Devotion In the grand halls of Lodge St. Olaf 1188, where history intertwines with tradition, there exists a treasure of unparalleled significance: the St. Olaf Distinguished Service Jewel. Commissioned in the year 1992, this emblem of honor stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of the brethren who have shaped the Lodge’s legacy.

1992 – Ythan Raft Race

The Booze Brothers One of Lodge St. Olaf’s most iconic and unforgettable entries in the Ythan Raft Race came the year they transformed into the “Booze Brothers,” a playful homage to the cult classic film The Blues Brothers. Staying true to the movie’s quirky charm, the crew went all out, constructing a full-sized…

1991 – Ythan Raft Race

Thunderbirds In 1991, Lodge St. Olaf returned to their favored nautical themes, this time taking inspiration from the iconic 1960s television series Thunderbirds. Their entry for the Ythan Raft Race featured the underwater craft Thunderbird 4 as the centerpiece, and the result was nothing short of spectacular.

1990 / 1992 – Bro. Derek Stephen RWM

1990 – Renovation

During the 1990 season, lodge members set about redecorating the lodge rooms. Walls were painted and papered, a new carpet was laid, the bench seating was upgraded and the portrait of King Solomon and the Master Mason was unveiled in pride of place in the East of the lodge.

1990 – Ythan Raft Race

Slains Castle 1990 Saw the boys from St. Olaf move away from the nautical themes Continuing their tradition of creative, community-inspired themes, Lodge St. Olaf shifted focus in 1990 to tackle a local issue close to the hearts of Cruden Bay residents. Up until now, the Lodge had drawn from seafaring motifs, but this time they aligned their entry with a campaign opposing contentious plans to develop the site formerly occupied by the Cruden Bay Brick and Tile Company.

1990 / 1999 – 45 New Members

The following list records the fifty-four Brethren who joined Lodge St Olaf during the decade of the 1990s, comprising forty-eight initiates and six affiliates. During these years the Lodge continued to welcome new members while maintaining the traditions and principles that had long guided its work.

1989 – The Speyside Way

DAY MINUS ONE – AND COUNTING I write this on the eve of our journey into darkest Speyside, not knowing whether we will ever see civilisation, or even Cruden Bay, again. There is no telling what dangers we may meet on the way; however my misgivings are perhaps ill-founded, for I have the assurance that I am indeed in the company of a most intrepid band of explorers – not least Derek the Butcher, who has been wearing in his walking shoes the 200 yards to work each morning, AND behind the counter and also a formidable-sounding personage known simply as Big Tam.

1989 – Ythan Raft Race

Noah’s Ark In 1989, Lodge St. Olaf once again showcased their flair for creativity and community spirit with their entry in the Ythan Raft Race: a striking representation of Noah’s Ark. True to the biblical tale, the raft was an ambitious construction, featuring intricate details that brought the story to life. Complete with a multi-tiered design and animal figures, the Ark was both a visual masterpiece and a playful nod to the enduring legend.

1988 / 1990 – Bro. Jim Gardiner RWM

1988 – Ythan Raft Race

Chinese Junk In 1988, Lodge St. Olaf returned to the high seas of imagination, this time with an ambitious and striking representation of a Chinese Junk. Staying true to their penchant for intricate detail, the crew poured countless hours into crafting a vessel that was both visually stunning and culturally evocative—albeit in a way that might not align with today’s standards of political correctness.

1987 – Ythan Raft Race

The Trawler For the most part, Lodge St. Olaf’s entries in the Ythan Raft Race leaned heavily toward seafaring themes—a natural choice given the maritime heritage of the surrounding communities. For their second outing, the Lodge paid tribute to this legacy by crafting a meticulously detailed replica of a Peterhead fishing trawler.

1986 / 1988 – Bro. Kenny Davidson RWM

Kenny Davidson was arguably the most essential link connecting the generations of Lodge St. Olaf, bridging those who came before the 1980s with the generations that followed. At the time of his installation as Master, Kenny was 51 years old, a figure of respect and admiration among the “older school” members who had been long established in the Lodge. At the same time, he was an approachable and inspirational leader for the younger men who joined Lodge St. Olaf in significant numbers throughout the 1980s. His ability to unite and inspire members of all ages cemented his role as a pivotal figure in the Lodge’s history.

1986 – The West Highland Way

The Lodge began it’s a more adventurous fundraising efforts back in the mid ’80s with the 100-mile trek along the West Highland Way. Four Lodge members agreed to take on the arduous task and as well as any physical preparations they would have made, they also collected sponsorship which promised to raise the Lodge a great deal of money upon completion of the task.

1986 – Ythan Raft Race

The Mississippi Paddle Steamer In 1986, Lodge St. Olaf took its first tentative steps toward making raft race history. The six-man crew, brimming with enthusiasm but little experience, could not have imagined that their inaugural effort would lay the foundation for a decade of triumphs in creative design.

1984 / 1986 – Bro. Alex Noble RWM

1982 / 1984 Bro. Jim Hutton RWM

Bro. Jimmy Hutton served as a vital bridge between the past and future of the Lodge during the transformative years of the 1980s. A proud son of Glasgow, Jimmy relocated to Cruden Bay to pursue a career in the thriving oil industry. However, his contributions to the community extended far beyond his professional life.

1981 – Initiation of Bro. Gordon Mackay P.M.

1980 – Installation of Bro. Jim Towers

1980 / 1989 – 83 New Members

The following list records the eighty-three Brethren who joined Lodge St Olaf during the decade of the 1980s, comprising seventy-five initiates and eight affiliates. This period represented one of significant growth for the Lodge, with a strong number of new members entering the Craft and several experienced Brethren affiliating from other lodges.

1969 – Consecration Ceremony

On Friday, 19th December 1969, brethren from across Aberdeenshire East and beyond gathered in Cruden Bay for a landmark occasion in the history of Lodge St. Olaf — the Consecration of its new Lodge rooms.

1960 / 1969 – 26 New Members

The following list records the twenty-six Brethren who were initiated into Lodge St Olaf during the decade of the 1960s. Unlike previous decades, no affiliates joined the Lodge during this period, and all new members entered the Craft through initiation within the Lodge itself.

1950 / 1959 – 50 New Members

The following list records the fifty Brethren who joined Lodge St Olaf during the decade of the 1950s, comprising forty-nine initiates and one affiliate. In the years following the end of the Second World War, communities gradually returned to stability and growth, and the Lodge likewise experienced a period of renewed activity and expansion.

1940 / 1949 – 42 New Members

The following names record the forty-two Brethren who joined Lodge St Olaf during the decade of the 1940s, comprising forty-one initiates and one affiliate. This period was shaped profoundly by the circumstances of the Second World War and the years of adjustment that followed. Despite these challenges, the Lodge continued to welcome new members, maintaining its traditions and preserving the spirit of fellowship that lay at the heart of its work.

1930 / 1939 – 28 New Members

The following list records the twenty-two initiates and five affiliates who joined Lodge St Olaf during the years 1930 to 1939. This decade, marked by economic uncertainty and the gathering tensions that would lead to the Second World War, nevertheless saw a steady continuation of the Lodge’s work and traditions. The Brethren named below represent a cross-section of the community at that time, each bringing his own background and contribution to the life of the Lodge.

1920 / 1929 – 103 New Members

The decade following the founding of Lodge St Olaf No. 1188 saw a remarkable period of growth and enthusiasm within the lodge. Between 1920 and 1929, a total of 103 new brethren joined its ranks, reflecting the strong appeal and steady development of Freemasonry within the local community.

1919 – 36 Founder Members and 21 Innitiates

Lodge St. Olaf was founded in May 1919, the 36 founder members, and the first 21 innitiates, were local men returning from the 1st World War and Freemasonry offered them a common bond and laid the foundations of the local village lodge we have become. Meetings were initially held in Port Erroll Public Hall where the furniture of the lodge was stored, brought out set up for meetings, apractice which was followed for the following 50 years until the aquisition and consitution of the Lodges own building in Serald Lane in 1969.