This Is Our Story

As part of the Grand Lodge of Scotland initiative, “This Is Our Story’, Lodge Greenock St. John’s No. 175 opened its doors to the public from 12.00 noon until 3.00 pm on Saturday, 21st February 2026.

Suffice to say, we were quite overwhelmed by the level of support. Interested members of the public and visiting Freemasons - some travelling from as far afield as Fife, Glasgow and Hamilton - began to gather from 11.40 am, and by midday a considerable number were waiting to gain admission.

This marked the beginning of a busy and most encouraging afternoon. Ninety-two visitors signed the attendance sheet, in addition to several children, bringing the total number present to well over one hundred.

Throughout the afternoon our tour guides were kept fully engaged, as were the brethren in the kitchen who provided tea, coffee and biscuits to a steady stream of guests. Visitors expressed genuine interest in their surroundings and in the rich 236 year history of the Lodge, and many were clearly captivated by what they saw and heard.

At least one serious enquiry regarding membership was received and will be progressed in due course.

Although it had been intended to conclude proceedings at 3.00 pm, such was the spirit of fellowship and conversation that many remained until approximately 4.30 pm, enjoying both the hospitality and the opportunity for discussion.

The Open Day proved to be a most worthwhile and rewarding exercise. While the attendance was excellent, it is perhaps to be hoped that future events might attract greater visible support from some senior members of the Craft in the Province.

A reporter from the Greenock Telegraph spent almost two hours speaking with brethren and visitors, taking photographs and notes. It is therefore anticipated that a comprehensive report will appear the local press in the coming days.

In all respects, it was a tremendous day - one that demonstrated the value of openness and engagement with our community, and one which could, and indeed should, be repeated.

Sincere thanks to all who made it a success - PR & Media Architects - Tour Guides - Stewards - Tea Room, Kitchen and bar staff and of course our visitors.