HISTORY OF THE CADOGAN LODGE 8965
by W.Bro. Peter Lloyd.
The Lodge derives it name from local historical connections and also that the Earl Cadogan M.C. D.L. was, at the time of consecration, the Pro. Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England.
Permission was obtained from the Earl Cadogan to use the Family Crest of a seahorse as the Lodge Crest and also the Family Motto “Qui Invidet Minor Est” loosely translated as “He who doesn’t try, doesn’t succeed”
The Cadogan Lodge was consecrated on the 20th January 1981 at the Caversham Masonic Temple by the Lord Rathcreedan T.D. The Provincial Grand Master for Oxfordshire.
During its short history, the lodge has supported many of the masonic charities and also local non-masonic charites with a benevolence far outstreaching its relatively small membership. Patronage of the RMBI 2001 Millennium Appeal being achieved in March 1998.
The Lodge has close links with The Stratfield Saye Lodge No.8239 in the neighbouring Province of Berkshire. An exchange visit where the Officers of the visiting Lodge conduct the ceremony of Passing takes place in January(Caversham) and June(Sindlesham).
Cadogan was also the first Lodge meeting at the Caversham Masonic centre to hold a “White Table”, where ladies and non-masons attended the festive board, at which the princely sum of almost £600 was raised for charity. This is carried on today at every December meeting.
Although at present, small in numbers, the warmth of welcome from Cadogan Lodge to all visiting brethren would be almost impossible to surpass.