Sixth Dr. C. Sankey Masonic Lecture at Brock University

Six brethren from West Gate spent a sunny afternoon in St. Catherines at Brock University to enjoy the sixth Dr. C. Sankey Masonic lecture. The lecture was on the Masonic career of Sir Thomas Dunckerley (c. 1720-1795) by Prof. Susan M. Sommers.

The lecture gave us a insight into the man and Mason who although being a son of a porter brought new energy plus innovation into English Freemasonry at the height of the constant friction and bitter rivalry between the "Antients" and "Moderns" branches of mainstream Masonry. Dr. Sommers research uncovered evidence that this passionate Mason was also a great pretender as history records him as being the illigitimate son of King George II, of which he was not. Regardless of his false pedigree he did in fact establish and guide numerous craft Lodges in Southern England as Provincial Grand Master. He also instituted the Sea-faring warrant allowing dispensation for Lodges to be held aboard Naval ships during the seven years war. He was the first Grand Master of the English Knights Templar, Grand First Principal RAM, and head of the Royal Ark Mariners.

Bro. Dunckerley brought his vision of Masonry from England to Upper Canada during the conflict of the sevens years war and was a pioneer in the early establishment of Masonry as we know it now in Canada.

For more information on the history and origins of Freemasonry in Canada please look into the College of Freemasonry on the GL website: grandlodge.on.ca