As one explores the records wondering what might evolve, the exploratory mind is always hopeful, that something unique will emerge, some gem of custom or tradition, a something that will make it stand out above all others.

Has Lodge Major Ness such a something?

In its proud history, spanning 75 years, many characteristics have emerged, some bright and colourful, some controversial.

Let us look for a moment, at the situation in Burnbank in 1902. Far from being the poor relation of the Burgh of Hamilton, Burnbank was rapidly expanding. A flourishing Coal Mining Industry, crying out for Labour, surrounded by an expanding Steel Complex, the Clyde Shipyard, order books bursting at the seams, a stones throw away, with many more of the lighter industries growing up; the future looked rosy. The prospect was good. That was the situation in Burnbank in 1902, when Major John Ness, that well respected and extremely popular Schoolmaster from Blantyre, who already had a brilliant background in Masonic Circles, being twice R.W.M., and Secretary of Lodge Livingstone No. 599 saw fit, to set the wheels turning for the creation of a Masonic Lodge in Burnbank, Hamilton.

Already there were three Lodges functioning in the town, but plenty of room for expansion especially in an expanding suburb. A Charter was applied for and granted by the Grand Lodge of Scotland. That was the birth of Lodge Major Ness No. 948.

The die was cast.

The Charter was granted on 7th May 1903. The first meeting was held on June 30th, when P.M. Bro. John Ness No. 599 initiated 10 candidates.

A great start indeed.

At the end of that first meeting, Bro. Ness presented the Lodge with a Bible, and the Master presented a Box of Working Tools.

On December 26th 1903, the Lodge was erected and consecrated. Then followed the Installation of Office Bearers by Col. Peter Spence S.P.G.M. and Provincial Office Bearers. According to the minutes, there were no teething troubles that one would normally expect in an undertaking such as this, and surely that says for almost perfect organising. Ten out of Ten!

At the beginning of the year 1904, the Lodge funds stood at £45.7.6d. A remarkable achievement indeed.

On May 11th, 1904, a needy Bro., was granted £2.0.0d. The first appeal from the Benevolent fund.

On going through the records of the 75 years, one feature stands out above the others, and that is this, the lesson of the N.E. Corner was the brightest jewel of the Lodge. Ask and ye shall receive, that should be the Motto of the Lodge. Almost every charitable organisation, local, county wise, and National can cheerfully thank Lodge Major Ness for assistance given, because their appeals never fell on deaf ears; and donations were forwarded according to financial situation at the time. It is on record that a sum of money was granted to a widow whose late husband was a member of 233.

As a young Lodge, they were enterprising and progressive, always striving to improve. They had many traditions and characteristics of their own. A temple of their own was the first priority. Who can ever forget that warm and cosy atmosphere, with the bright and comforting coal fire in the centre of the Lodge room. A real home from home for member and visitor alike. Nostalgic? Perhaps? but something one will always remember.

The Zodiac Circle which once adorned the wall behind the Master's Chair, was another, but more instructive feature of the Lodge. The Circle Lecture, so ably given by P.M. Bro. Thomas Goudie was fascinating and interesting, and not featured often enough.

The Fellow Craft Degree, with choir and musical background so ably presented presented by P.M. Bro. Robert Black, was a joy and a delight to listen to. Is there no one interested enough to take this up again? There was a time, and lets be strictly impartial, when the Lodge had to "thole their assizes". Perhaps lack of thought and inexperience was at the root of the trouble, but that’s all behind them now, and the present, and the future is very cosy indeed.

Throughout the life span of 75 years, many illustrious and talented Masters have adorned the Chair of the Lodge, bringing great credit to themselves and their Mother Lodge. It would be grossly unfair to particularise. All played their part in helping to build up the reputation and situation one finds in the Lodge today.

Although Burnbank is a purely industrial section of the town, many profes­sional men were attracted to Lodge Major Ness. Doctors, Ministers, School-masters, H.M. Inspector of Mines and many of them paid the Lodge a great compliment by being regular in their attendance. The success of any Lodge, materially depends on the skill and ability of the R.W.M. and not only as a Ritualist, but also in planning the session's work, and make the meetings as attractive as possible to members and visitors alike. For many years this has been a feature of Lodge Major Ness's business. Their connections lie far beyond the Middle Ward Province and this surely is a great compliment to them.

Visitors are attracted by the friendliness of their welcome, and the spirit of real brotherliness which prevails, apart from the quality of the work performed, which is second to none, and must be a great comfort to the R.W.M. and Lodge Office-bearers. And when one realises that this part of the business is in the capable hands of mostly young, efficient and keen workers, who can look forward to many, many years in happy association with the Lodge.

Many a Lodge would give a lot to be in their proud and happy situation. And so, as another landmark has been achieved, and a new era of achievement lies ahead, our sincere wish is, that long may Lodge Major Ness No. 948 bear worthy sons of a worthy mother, who will work hard to keep the name of Major Ness in its proper and rightful place, and honoured among the Lodges.

SO MOTE IT BE

POINTS IN THE COMPASS: