History

The Lodge of Research No. 2429 owes its existence to the vision and passion of W.Bro. J.T. Thorp. Working in the elastic web industry, Thorp’s international travels sparked a lifelong fascination with Continental Freemasonry. A distinguished literary and historical scholar, he was also a fellow of numerous learned societies throughout the British Isles.

In 1892, Leicester boasted 370 Masons across five Lodges. Thorp, alongside W.Bro. F.W. Billson, a local solicitor, began exploring Masonic topics of interest within the Leicester Union Lodge of Instruction. Inspired by Lodge Quatuor Coronati No. 2076, Thorp proposed the creation of a dedicated research lodge focused on expanding and sharing Masonic knowledge. This vision led to the founding of the Lodge of Research.

The Lodge of Research No. 2429 was warranted in 1892 and consecrated on 26th October during a meeting of the Provincial Grand Lodge. While Samuel Partridge officiated at the consecration, he graciously stepped aside to allow W.Bro. G. Speth, Past Master of Quatuor Coronati Lodge, to install Thorp as the Lodge’s first Master. W. Bro. Speth subsequently became an honorary member and a frequent contributor to the Lodge’s Transactions, establishing a strong and enduring connection between the two Lodges.

Although the Lodge of Research holds the authority to initiate, pass, and raise candidates, it was decided early on that it would not encroach upon the work of other Lodges or the Union Lodge of Instruction.

Following his year as Master, Thorp served as the Lodge’s Secretary and became the first editor of its Transactions, contributing many articles himself. His commitment to preserving the papers presented to the Lodge led to the ongoing publication of this esteemed series, which has showcased the work of numerous distinguished Masonic scholars, including Prestonian lecturers and prominent international Brethren.

The Lodge of Research has also played a significant role in developing and maintaining the Hall’s Library and Museum.