UGLE University Scheme Celebrates 20 Years

The concept of a University Scheme was rooted in visits made by David Kenneth Williamson to both Apollo Lodge in Oxford and Isaac Newton Lodge in Cambridge as a guest of Jonathan Spence, where the enthusiasm and enjoyment were palpable.

In 2005, Lord Northampton encouraged the creation of a scheme to share his enthusiasm for Freemasonry more widely. A committee chaired by Oliver Lodge held its first meeting on January 19th that year, with eight universities and local PGMs helping to establish the first lodges.

The aim was clear: to create and enhance opportunities for undergraduates and other university members to join and enjoy Freemasonry. That objective remains unchanged 20 years later.

The scheme grew rapidly—25 lodges by 2009, 61 by its tenth anniversary, and today over 100 lodges and chapters, including some overseas, despite the challenges of

Covid.

At the meeting of DKW Lodge on 20^th September a celebration of 20 highly successful years of the University Scheme took place in Temple 10 at Grand Lodge, which was attended by invited guests from all the University Scheme Lodges and Chapters. Paul Rogerson secretary of University Lodge of Chester attended representing both ULoC and St Mary’s Chapter.

Following the meeting Dr Andy Green gave a fascinating insight into the origins of University Scheme Lodges from several centuries ago to modern day.

The day was rounded off by a champagne reception followed a sumptuous lunch in Grand Lodge at Great Queen Street.