The John Thorp Museum

Preserving the Material Heritage of Freemasonry

The John Thorp Museum is one of the hidden treasures of Freemasonry in Leicestershire and Rutland. Through its collections of regalia, documents, certificates, artefacts, photographs, and memorabilia, the Museum preserves the rich history of the Craft and the many individuals who have shaped it over more than two centuries.

A view of an exhibit room filled with display cases showcasing various collectibles, including medals and historical artifacts. A visitor is browsing near the entrance.

Named after John Thorp (1864–1940), founder of the Lodge of Research No. 2429 and one of the most influential Masonic researchers of his generation, the Museum continues his passion for collecting, preserving, and interpreting the historical record of Freemasonry.

About John Thorp

John Thorp was a distinguished Masonic scholar, collector, and author who devoted much of his life to researching the history of the Craft in Leicestershire, Rutland, and beyond.

Portrait of a man with a beard and glasses, wearing a formal suit and bow tie, with a decorative necklace and a medal.
John Thorp

His pioneering work laid the foundations for Masonic research within the Province and inspired generations of researchers. Many of the objects, books, documents, and records that survive today owe their preservation to his foresight and dedication.

The Museum stands as a lasting tribute to his contribution to Masonic scholarship.

The Collection

The Museum houses a diverse collection of Masonic artefacts spanning more than 250 years of history.

Regalia and Jewels

The collection includes:

  • Craft and Royal Arch jewels
  • Mark Masonry regalia
  • Past Master’s jewels
  • Provincial and Grand Rank insignia
  • Historic medals and commemorative badges

These items illustrate the evolution of Masonic symbolism, design, and craftsmanship through successive generations.

Certificates and Documents

Visitors can explore a fascinating collection of:

  • Lodge certificates
  • Grand Lodge certificates
  • Royal Arch certificates
  • Membership records
  • Warrants and dispensations
  • Historic summonses and notices

Many of these documents provide unique insights into the lives of individual Freemasons and the development of local lodges.

Lodge and Provincial History

The Museum contains material relating to:

  • The Provincial Grand Lodge of Leicestershire and Rutland
  • Early lodges within the Province
  • Royal Arch Chapters
  • Mark Lodges
  • Other Masonic Orders

These artefacts help tell the story of Freemasonry’s growth throughout the region from the eighteenth century to the present day.

Photographs and Ephemera

Among the most popular items are:

  • Historic lodge photographs
  • Portraits of notable Freemasons
  • Masonic hall memorabilia
  • Centenary and anniversary material
  • Souvenir programmes and menus
  • Research lodge publications

Together these provide a vivid picture of Masonic life through changing social and historical periods.

Highlights of the Collection

The Museum’s collection includes many rare and unusual objects, such as:

  • Early Masonic certificates
  • Historic tracing boards
  • Lodge banners and standards
  • Rare books and pamphlets
  • Personal possessions of distinguished Freemasons
  • Artefacts connected with the history of Freemasonry in Leicestershire and Rutland

Rotating displays ensure that visitors can regularly discover new items and stories from the collection.

Research and Education

The Museum exists not only to preserve artefacts but also to support research and education.

Working closely with the David Hagger Library and the Lodge of Research No. 2429, the Museum provides resources for:

  • Masonic researchers
  • Local historians
  • Genealogists
  • Students of material culture
  • Members seeking to learn more about the history of the Craft

Many objects featured in the collection have inspired papers published in the Transactions of the Lodge of Research No. 2429.

Donations and Acquisitions

The Museum welcomes donations of:

  • Masonic regalia
  • Jewels and medals
  • Certificates and documents
  • Photographs
  • Lodge histories
  • Personal papers
  • Artefacts relating to Freemasonry in Leicestershire and Rutland

Each donation helps preserve an important part of Masonic heritage for future generations.

Visit the Museum

The John Thorp Museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history, people, and traditions that have shaped Freemasonry within the Province and beyond.

Whether your interest lies in local history, Masonic symbolism, family research, or the evolution of the Craft, the Museum provides an invaluable window into the past.

We invite visitors and researchers alike to discover the stories behind the objects and to help us preserve the material heritage of Freemasonry for future generations.

“Every artefact tells a story; every story helps preserve the history of the Craft.” — John Thorp Museum