Blackwater Lodge celebrate Brian Wright’s 50 years of service
A well-earned 50-year certificate for Brian Wright’s unwavering commitment, research and dedication to Freemasonry
The most recent regular meeting of Blackwater Lodge No. 1977, at the St Giles Masonic Centre, Colchester held on 12 November 2025, represented a significant milestone for Brian Wright of being awarded his 50-year certificate by the Provincial Grand Master (PGM), Paul Tarrant. While many within the Essex Province may be familiar with Brian’s unwavering commitment, thorough research and dedication to Freemasonry, few are aware of his remarkable longevity in the fraternity.
Brian began his Masonic journey in October 1975 when he was initiated into Cranbrook Lodge No. 4609. Nine years later, in 1984, he served as their Worshipful Master, subsequently also holding the position at the Guild of Freemen Lodge No. 3525 in London in 2000.
From his early beginnings his extensive Masonic career now includes attending over 2,000 meetings and visiting lodges in Australia, Jamaica, Israel, Italy, Romania, Bulgaria, France, Netherlands and Scotland.
He holds honorary membership of Amore, Actio et Fides No. 51 in the Regular Grand Lodge of Italy and is an Honorary Past Master of Humanitas No. 86 in the National Grand Lodge of Romania. Additionally, Brian is a member of Mother Kilwinning No. 0 in the Grand Lodge of Scotland, recognised as the world’s oldest lodge.
In London he holds Grand Rank and in the Province of Essex, received several appointments culminating in 2016 of being awarded the Distinguished Service to Essex Masonry as well as many active Provincial roles including for 19 years as Provincial Information Officer.
Although Brian sadly lost his wife nearly a decade ago, he remains supported by two daughters—one of whom is a Baptist Minister currently pursuing a master’s degree in theology—and five grandchildren, including two grandsons who have already surpassed him in height, one at just 14 years old.
Brian’s passion for archery has spanned many years, during which he competed in national trials and earned the title of East Anglian champion. For over 20 years, he served as a National Coach and held the role of UK Director of Coaching for 11 years. Presently, he coaches twice weekly at Blades Archery Club, located on the Essex University Campus. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Sports Coaching with a special focus on performance psychology.
Brian’s Masonic career is an astounding testament to his devotion to go that one step further in research to discover and share the many aspects of Freemasonry having played a key role in publishing comprehensive histories of Essex Provincial Craft, Royal Arch, and Knights Templar, as well as the 125-year history of the Order of the Secret Monitor in England and contributing to ten further histories for various Masonic units.
A splendid 50 years that can be summed up in Brian’s own words, "There is no point in gathering information and experience if you are not prepared to pass it on."
Photos:
Top: Paul Tarrant (PGM) presenting Brian with his 50-year certificate
Below: L-R - Paul Tarrant, Andy Hastings (Worshipful Master, Blackwater Lodge), Brian
