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The Old Westminsters’ Lodge
Casper Lawson (RR, 1977-80)
Ashmolean Museum, University of Oxford
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Sir Christopher Wren was both an OW and a Freemason, according to the best contemporary evidence.
Coming from a Royalist-connected family, in an increasingly Parliamentary world, it is no surprise that he would be attracted to Freemasonry. No-one knows exactly when the order was founded but it seems likely it was forged as a reaction against the vicious political and religious divisions in the 17th Century, when men of different beliefs came together with a radical idea, to meet in harmony and focus on what united them; the aim that everyone should strive to become the best possible version of themselves. In the divisive days of the English Civil War, and the 30 Years War on the continent, it is easy to see how a politically – and religiously – tolerant organisation would be attractive to a man of science. (The Royal Society, which Wren went on to co-found, had similar principles.)
We are still following these principles four centuries later and think they are increasingly relevant in our divided world. All political and religious discussion is banned at our meetings. Our ceremonies are somewhat like Morality Plays, to remind us how best to live and treat all those around us. In our four meetings last year at the School we initiated one OW and took two others through the ceremonies of passing and raising. The Assistant Metropolitan Grand Master also visited to present a 50-year certificate, reflecting the age range of our members from 20s to 80s.
To find out how to join in our ‘serious fun’, or just to find out more about the oldest OW alumni organisation, we invite you to browse, and contact us through, our website:
