The Greenstede Lodge was founded on the 30th of September 1965 There were 18 Founders, most of whom were local businessmen and traders. It was for this reason that Lodge meetings are always held on a Wednesday starting either late afternoon or early evening. In those days, most of the shops in East Grinstead were only open for half the day, as it was customary practice in provincial towns and villages to have an early closing day.
It was deemed necessary to form another lodge in the town, there are at present four in total with several other allied degrees, as Greenstede mother lodge, Three Counties, had so many members that progression was too slow.
The first Worshipful Master of the Lodge was Roy Major ably assisted by his Senior Warden, Frank Rogers, his Junior Warden, David Shepherd, and the other fifteen Founders. Today the Lodge flourishes and Greenstede traditions continue, but now with many members with varied business and professional backgrounds.
Originally the Lodge used to meet and dine at Ye Olde Felbridge Hotel. After a few years the meetings were then held at the Temple in St James Road and dining was in various hostelries and restaurants around the town. Since the Masonic Centre was opened both the meetings and the dining take place on site.
The Lodge has always been renowned for its friendliness and hospitality, although the main aim has always to support both local and Masonic charities.
FOUNDERS
- Bro R P King 10.. Bro R Westwood
- Bro B Place 11. W. Bro D Shepard
- Bro D G Wayte-Smith 12. Bro H R Hall
- Bro R Rice 13. W. Bro F A Rogers
- Bro C S Slatter 14. W. Bro A L Bowers
- Bro J E Lumsden 15. W Bro W B Farrow
- W Bro G L Lowe 16. W Bro F McElvenny
- W Bro R H O Major 17. W. Bro J Kidd
- W Bro J D Martin 18. Bro F E Cast
