The Pride of Islington Lodge was formed in 1845 at Islington Green and since that date, has never strayed further than our present home, Highbury Crescent Rooms, which was built in 1927 for our own exclusive use. The War Years saw the Lodge moved into temporary accommodation to enable the Rooms to be used for the War Effort in the distribution of Ration Books, Gas Masks etc., etc. It was only in 1985 that we returned to our premises, albeit on one floor only of the building. In 1998, the members took the decision to return to the ground floor which houses a sprung maple wood dance floor. A full refurbishment has taken place along with the rest of the building and Social Functions are held there throughout the year.
Attendance at our regular meetings (we meet every alternate Wednesday evening from 7.30 p.m. onwards) is not a requirement of your membership, but all that do attend, are made very welcome. We are always looking for active members who wish to assist in the running of the Lodge and organising events that will benefit the local community and charities, as well as the membership as a whole. Membership is open to all, regardless of age, gender, political or religious beliefs. The Loyal Pride of Islington Lodge is steeped in family tradition (in some instances, there are several generations of one family in the Lodge) and prides itself on its care for all members well-being. We are here for you if you need us. Arrangements will be made for you to receive the Society’s magazine direct from our Head Office in Manchester and also a District Circular which is distributed throughout the year to which you may wish to send articles. This is often used to notify you of forthcoming events within the Lodge and other Lodges of the North London District. The Society, over the last several years, has commenced setting up our own Credit Union to which you are fully entitled to join, if you so desire. Watch out for further details on Credit Unions in the District news-sheet.
In March of each year, the Lodge holds its Annual Summoned Meeting of which all members are notified and sent a copy of the Accounts for the previous year. You are fully entitled to attend these meetings and we would be pleased to receive you. The Society, in the early years, practiced ritualistic ceremonies which many Lodges still use today to remind us of our forefathers and the benefits they bequeathed us. Please let me assure you that there is nothing sinister about what we practice, nothing derogatory, nothing embarrassing and certainly nothing to be ashamed of. Our Wives and Children all take part in such ceremonies and should you wish to seek Office within the Lodge and possibly, the District in the future, it is necessary to partake in these ceremonies. Once again, it is not a condition of membership and your participation is your own decision,
In conclusion, may I impress upon you that we are not a secret Society. Our doors are open to all who wish to become members. Believe Me when I tell you, that nothing is sweeter than relieving the wants and needs of others, especially the sick and distressed.
After 160 years we are now stronger than ever. We must be doing something right.
Wishing you peace, health and happiness, I remain,
Yours Sincerely and Fraternally
R A Smith PPGM; CAMU; Lodge Secretary
