Volume 134 (2025–26)
Continuing a Tradition of Masonic Scholarship
Volume 134 of the Transactions of the Lodge of Research No. 2429 brings together original research, historical enquiry, biographical studies, museum discoveries, and reflections on the place of Freemasonry in society today. The volume continues the Lodge’s mission of advancing Masonic knowledge and preserving the history of Freemasonry in Leicestershire, Rutland, and beyond.
Featured Articles
First Impressions of Freemasonry in Bulgaria after the Communist Era
John A. Townsend
A fascinating study of the revival of Freemasonry in Bulgaria following the collapse of Communist rule, examining the challenges and opportunities faced by a renewed Masonic movement in Eastern Europe.
King Solomon’s Temple in Myth and Ritual
Daniel M. Johnson
An exploration of one of Freemasonry’s most enduring themes, considering the relationship between biblical tradition, mythological interpretation, and Masonic ritual.
The History of The Knight of Malta Lodge of Mark Masters No. 30 Time Immemorial
Peter Gibson-Leitch
A detailed examination of one of the oldest and most distinguished Mark lodges, tracing its origins, development, and contribution to Mark Masonry.
Captain The Honourable Robert Boyle-Walsingham – The First Provincial Grand Master of Rutland
Andrew R. Green
A biographical study of the first Provincial Grand Master of Rutland, placing his life and Masonic career within the wider context of eighteenth-century provincial Freemasonry.
King Athelstan’s Masonic Legacy
Paul R. Calderwood
An investigation into the traditions, legends, and historical evidence surrounding King Athelstan’s place in the development of Masonic history and folklore.
The Formation and Consecration of The Holmes Lodge No. 4656
Steven Skidmore & David J. Hughes
A study of the origins of one of the Province’s most important lodges, exploring its formation, consecration, and contribution to Masonic life.
Second World War Memorial Tablet in Freemasons’ Hall, Leicester
Jonathan D. Varley
Research into the history and significance of the memorial tablet commemorating members of the Craft who died during the Second World War.
The Restoration of the Fletcher Tracing Boards
Andrew R. Green
An account of the conservation and restoration of one of the Province’s most important sets of historic tracing boards, together with an assessment of their heritage significance.
Museum & Library
The Development of the John Thorp Museum and David Hagger Library in Freemasons’ Hall, Leicester – 265 Years of Masonic History
Michael England & Aubrey N. Newman
A history of the growth and development of the Museum and Library collections, highlighting their role in preserving Masonic heritage for future generations.
Recent Acquisitions in the John Thorp Museum, Freemasons’ Hall, Leicester
Donald A. Peacock & David J. Hughes
An illustrated survey of recent additions to the Museum collection and the stories behind these important artefacts.
Culture and Reflection
Reflections on the Place of Music in Freemasonry, Locally and Nationally
David J. Hughes
A study of the role that music has played in the life of the Craft, examining its importance both within the Province and across Freemasonry more generally.
The Unknown Warrior
James Crawford
A reflective paper considering remembrance, sacrifice, and national memory through the story of the Unknown Warrior.
Orations and Addresses
Oration at the Sesquicentenary Celebration of the Albert Edward Lodge No. 1560
Michael Wilson
A commemorative address marking 150 years of the Albert Edward Lodge and celebrating its contribution to Freemasonry in Leicestershire and Rutland.
Seeking the First Cause: Science, Faith, and the Meaning of Creation
Michael Wilson
An exploration of the relationship between scientific understanding, religious belief, and Freemasonry’s concept of the Great Architect of the Universe.
More Than Charity! Luke 12:13–21
Robert Stephen
A thought-provoking reflection on charity, stewardship, and the values that underpin Masonic life.
In Memoriam
Alfred Ernest Sharman
Volume 134 includes a tribute to Alfred Ernest Sharman, recognising a life of service and contribution to Freemasonry.
Additional Features
- Worshipful Master Biography
- Editorial
- John Thorp Museum and David Hagger Library update
- Call for Papers
Obtain Volume 134
Members of the Correspondence Circle will receive the latest volume of the Transactions by post in September 2026.
Interested in contributing? The Lodge welcomes original papers, historical research, and articles relating to Freemasonry, local Masonic history, symbolism, ritual, biography, and related subjects.
You must be logged in to post a comment.