Extra! Extra! Read all about it... for another Engayne Cockney Evening
Engayne Lodge traditional Cockney Night evening delights members and guests
On Saturday 13th April, the Engayne Lodge No. 6831, situated snugly in the heart of Cockney Land – well, Upminster Masonic Centre - hosted their regular meeting followed by their traditional Cockney Night.
With a turnout of 80 in attendance a passing ceremony was carried out with an exemplary explanation of the second-degree tracing board by Daniel Phillips earning admiration from all.
With a call-off the Lodge transitioned seamlessly to a banquet fit for kings, boasting a delectable array of shellfish delights, including jellied eels, cockles, muscles, and welks. With a jovial atmosphere it set the stage for an entertaining second half of the Lodge meeting.
The meeting was reconvened returning to the business in hand and once completed and marking the end of formalities was closed; and then began a journey back in time.
The festive board adorned with Union Jack and England flags was presided over by a recording of Sir Winston Churchill, followed by the melodious tones of Vera Lynn, transporting attendees to a bygone era. Amidst the backdrop of air raid searchlights casting eerie shadows, the atmosphere crackled with anticipation, sending shivers down the spine.
As the all-clear signal sounded, all the ‘China Plates,’ many suitably adorned in East End waistcoats and caps, sat at the ‘Caen and Abel’ for a splendid sit-down feast, leaving no palate unsatisfied. With plates piled high with culinary delights, the brethren and guests indulged in a gastronomic extravaganza, savouring every morsel with gusto.
With appetites satisfied, attention turned to the evening's entertainment, as song sheets were distributed, and the room erupted in jovial melodies and a ‘ding-dong.’ - ‘Bubble Bath’ and camaraderie filled the air as brethren and guests alike joined in the revelry, celebrating the bonds of brotherhood and friendship that define Freemasonry.
In the hallowed halls of Engayne Lodge, a night to remember was etched into the annals of their history, where tradition, camaraderie, and brotherly love converged in a spectacle of unparalleled splendour.
The Lodge is now getting ready for their 75th Anniversary meeting during Saturday, 4th May and they anticipate an equally magnificent event – Contact
For those non-East End cockney rhyming slang experts:
China plates – Mates : Caen and Abel - Table : Ding-Dong – Sing-Song : Bubble Bath - Laugh
Photos
Top: An impressive Cockney themed festive board
Left: Jellied Eeels and Cockles being enjoyed by brethren
