A Brief History of Yatton Masonic Hall
A Brief History of Yatton Masonic Hall
The story begins in the late 19th century with a substantial private dwelling known as Larchmount House. Around 1890, this building transitioned into an educational establishment, becoming a boarding school for young ladies. For approximately three decades, until the mid-1920s, Larchmount House played a role in the local community as a place of learning and residence for its students.
However, this chapter of the building's history came to an abrupt and destructive end in the early 1930s. A significant fire swept through Larchmount House, leaving behind a derelict shell. The once vibrant school lay in ruins, its future uncertain.
Meanwhile, the Lodge of Agriculture No. 1199, a Masonic Lodge with deep roots in the region, was seeking a permanent home. The Lodge had been warranted in 1867 and initially met in Congresbury. In 1882, they moved their meetings to the Railway Hotel in Yatton, establishing a long-standing presence in the village. Recognizing the need for a dedicated space for their Masonic activities, the Brethren saw an opportunity in the fire-damaged Larchmount House.
In 1935, the Lodge of Agriculture made the significant decision to purchase the derelict property. This marked the beginning of a new phase in the building's history. The Brethren undertook a substantial project of renovation and reconstruction, transforming the fire-ravaged structure into a fit and dignified Masonic Hall. This endeavor reflected their commitment to Freemasonry and their desire to establish a permanent centre within the community.
The culmination of their efforts came on March 16th, 1936, when the newly refurbished building was dedicated as the Yatton Masonic Hall. This dedication ceremony marked a pivotal moment, signifying the building's rebirth and its new purpose as a hub for Masonic activities in Yatton.
The Hall's service to the community faced a temporary disruption during the Second World War. The ground floor of the building was requisitioned by the Army for wartime use. Despite this, the spirit of Freemasonry in Yatton persevered, with Masonic meetings continuing to be held in the lodge room located upstairs. This resilience underscores the importance of the Hall to its members, even in challenging times.
Following the war, the Yatton Masonic Hall continued to serve as a vital centre for Freemasonry in the area. Over the years, it has become home to not only the Lodge of Agriculture No. 1199 but also to other Masonic Lodges and associated orders (all of which you can find out more about below).
Today, the Yatton Masonic Hall stands as a testament to the vision and dedication of the Brethren who transformed a derelict building into a thriving centre for Masonic life in Yatton and the surrounding area. It remains a significant landmark, embodying a rich history that spans education, destruction, and ultimately, the enduring principles of Freemasonry.