Founded in 1931
One of the original founders and first Worshipful Master was the local philanthropist and surgeon, Doctor Sidney O Atherley.
For more information on the Founders and the history of Swinton town itself, see the following link.
About Us
Gothic Lodge of Freemasons in Swinton
Gothic Lodge was founded in 1931 in Swinton, but members live all over South Yorkshire and beyond. The Lodge number is 5238 and is part of the historic West Riding of Yorkshire Province. There are over 200 other Lodges in the West Riding Province, stretching from the Yorkshire Dales to the Peak District.
Meetings are held every second Tuesday in the month at the Lodge in Swinton excepting June to September. We are regularly joined by members from other Lodges in the area and farther afield. Gothic is widely known as "the Friendly Lodge"
due to the welcome and hospitality we give our visitors.
Swinton History
https://www.kilnhurstheritage.co.uk/the-towns-history/swinton-history-snippets
Why is it called Gothic Lodge?
Freemasonry evolved from the medieval Stone Masons guilds that were formed to construct the great public buildings of the time, especially the magnificent Cathedrals that were the wonder of the age.
The Gothic style of architecture was pre-eminent between the 12th and 16th centuries. The style began in France with examples such as Notre Dame, Chartres and Amiens Cathedrals. The influence spread to the rest of Europe and can be seen in Westminster Abbey, York Minster, Canterbury, Milan, Trier and Cologne Cathedrals.
The main characteristics of Gothic architecture are the pointed arch and flying buttress that allowed the structures to be made taller, wider and stronger while creating space for larger stained glass windows. In addition the buildings were adorned with many ornate sculpted features such as gargoyles, imps and other mythical creatures.
The Gothic style had a revival in Victorian times leading to many famous examples of Neo-Gothic building such as the Houses of Parliament and St Pancras Railway Station.
Ever thought about becoming a Freemason? Don't know anyone who is a Freemason?
Send an email from the Contact section for more details.
Links to other sites for more information
West Riding Province https://www.wrprovince.org.uk
United Grand Lodge https://www.ugle.org.uk/
See Grand Lodge video below for more information.
New West Riding Province You-Tube link. Why you should join Freemasonry.
The link is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SoaHgzeOVL8