A Brief History of Progress Lodge No. 4584
Established in 1924, Progress Lodge has a proud and enduring history that reflects both the changing times and the enduring values of Freemasonry. It was formed during an era of great social and technological change—the same year saw the first RAF air show, early transatlantic flights, and the rise of inventions and ideas that would go on to shape the modern world.
The Lodge’s founding meeting was held in the elegant setting of the Lady Lever Art Gallery, with nineteen founding members. Its name, “Progress,” is thought to have come from an internal publication at a local factory where many of the founding members worked. The Lodge emblem reflects their local roots, featuring symbols tied to the community and youth organisations of the time.
In its early years, Progress Lodge quickly became an active and vibrant part of local Masonic life. Ceremonies were often held in pairs on the same evening, and a steady stream of new members joined. The Lodge also showed a strong sense of charity and service, regularly donating to local causes, especially during difficult times like the Great Depression and the Second World War.
During the war, the Lodge remained committed to meeting when possible, even as blackouts and rationing made normal life difficult. Notices reminded members to bring gas masks, and some meetings had to be relocated or rescheduled. Yet, the spirit of the Lodge remained strong, continuing ceremonies and even raising funds for Masonic charities despite the hardships.
Post-war years brought renewed energy. Membership grew, and many long-serving members who had been initiated decades earlier rose to take leading roles in the Lodge. The 25th, 50th, and 75th anniversaries were celebrated with pride, often with early members or their descendants still actively involved.
Progress Lodge has always shown resilience. When changes in ownership of the Art Gallery threatened their meeting place, they adapted by temporarily relocating and eventually finding new premises. Throughout, they continued to uphold the traditions and values of Freemasonry—fellowship, charity, and moral development.
Today, the Lodge continues its mission with the same spirit as those early years. With a respectful nod to its past and an eye on the future, Progress Lodge remains a welcoming and dedicated part of the local Masonic community.
🕰️ Timeline of Progress Lodge No. 4584
📅 1924 — Founding Year
- February: Progress Lodge was consecrated in a grand ceremony at the Lady Lever Art Gallery.
- Origins: Formed by members from nearby lodges with strong links to the local community and industry.
- Lodge Name: Inspired by a company newsletter titled “Progress”.
- Symbolism: Red Rose (Lancashire), anchor, and bees — reflecting local pride and youth organisations.
- Cost of Joining: Quite exclusive – equivalent of several hundred pounds today.
🔧 1924–1936 — Early Growth & Tradition
- Ceremonies held regularly with many new initiates.
- First initiate’s jewel placed on permanent display in the Lady Lever Art Gallery.
- Charitable giving began early – supporting hospitals and local welfare efforts.
- Royal Arch Chapter “Leverhulme” founded in honour of the area’s heritage.
⚔️ 1939–1945 — Wartime Resilience
- Continued meetings despite blackouts, air raids, and rationing.
- Members were reminded to bring gas masks to meetings.
- Dining moved to local inns when the Art Gallery was unavailable.
- Generous wartime charity donations continued despite difficult times.
🌅 Post-War Era: 1945–1960
- Freemasonry bounced back with strong attendance and regular ceremonies.
- Subscriptions and fees slowly adjusted to post-war economy.
- The lodge returned to its rhythm with initiations, passings, and raisings across the year.
🏅 1960s–1970s — Legacy & Leadership
- Initiates from the 1940s and ’50s rose to become respected leaders.
- A Jubilee meeting celebrated 50 years of Progress Lodge with a full house.
- Tradition remained strong, even as the world outside was changing rapidly.
🏛️ 1980s — Home & Heritage Challenges
- Faced with closure of the Lady Lever Art Gallery for repairs and policy changes.
- Lodge temporarily moved to other venues but always stayed active.
- Eventually, due to external restrictions, Progress Lodge voted to relocate permanently.
🎉 1990s–2000s — Rebuilding & Renewing
- A new meeting place was secured, offering stability and growth.
- The lodge continued to celebrate long service and welcome new members.
- Technology began to modernise administration, but tradition remained at heart.
🏆 2024 — 100 Years of Progress
- Centenary celebrations reflect on a full century of fellowship, charity, and community.
- Still vibrant, with regular meetings and new members joining.
- Looking forward to the next century, committed to Masonic values of integrity, kindness, and respect.