Fred Harris marks his 60-year milestone a Freemason with a diverse life
Elsenham Lodge celebrates the 60th anniversary of one of its founding members including a retrospective look at his life's achievements
On Thursday, 3rd April the Elsenham Lodge No. 8973 that meets at the Walden Masonic Hall in Saffron Walden celebrated the 60-year anniversary of one of their founder members, Fred Harris. The meeting was honoured by the presence of Paul Tarrant, the Provincial Grand Master (PGM), along with Assistant Provincial Grand Master, Joe Shearer.
Fred is a Lewis who joined Oak Lodge No. 190 at Freemasons Hall, London, proposed by his father on March 17, 1965. He progressed through the offices to become Master. In March 1981, alongside his father and Tony Ellis (current Treasurer), Fred co-founded Elsenham Lodge and served as its first Master. He has been devoted to the Lodge ever since.
Fred's masonic career is distinguished, with service in various orders as well as Craft, including the Royal Arch, Knights Templar, Mark Masons, Mark Mariners, Rose Croix, and Royal and Select Masters. He has achieved Grand Rank as Past Senior Grand Deacon, Junior Grand Deacon, and held Grand Rank in the Royal Arch. Additionally, Fred has held Provincial Rank in five different offices; detailing all the specific positions would be extensive.
Fred was extremely proud to receive his 60-year Provincial certificate presented by the PGM.
Fred’s personal life has also been noteworthy having been born and spending his early years in Leyton, East London and in 1948 the family moved to Hackney. He was educated at St. Dominics Roman Catholic School in Hackney and then to St. Phillip Magnus Grammar School in Islington, following which he went on to the University of North London to further his studies. On completion he did an apprenticeship as a carpenter and joiner, working in Loughton.
On finishing his studies, he went straight into the family businesses, Harvey, Harris Photographic, Harris Antiques and F. Harris and Co. This developed his love and knowledge of antiques particularly clocks, this followed on to him becoming a knowledgeable and accomplished horologist. A visit to his study to see his collection of clocks will show proof of this love.
He spent some time in the Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve on ‘H.M. President’ where he developed his love of small boat sailing. He was also a member of the Royal Navy Association. In his social life he was a member of the Royal Navy Association, Chairman of Elsenham Cricket Club, played football, became a keen philatelist and an avid model railway fan amongst other things. In addition to these pursuits, he found time to become an ‘Extraordinary Minister of the Holy Sacrament,’ conducting services and assisting at his local church. At one time he acted as Provincial Chaplain.
He has been ably and lovingly supported by his wife Maureen in all this time. They met at a nurse’s party at Whipps Cross Hospital close to where he lived at the time, she was training there and became a Sister. They have two sons, who they are very proud of, together with three grandchildren. Fred and Maureen are now in their 63rd year of marriage and when they celebrated their 60th they received a magnificent, signed letter of congratulations along with a photo from King Charles and Queen Camilla. They also received a letter of congratulations from their Bishop. Maureen has been Fred’s rock, and she has fully supported him in all that he has done.
When conversing with Fred, it becomes evident that he values human interaction and appreciates his fortunes. He exemplifies the qualities of a commendable Mason and serves as an exemplary role model.
Photos
Top: Fred surrounded by members and guests (Sitting 3rd from left Joe Shearer – 5th PGM and 6th Fred)
Below: Fred proudly holding his Provincial 60-year certificate and the PGM displaying his certificate from Metropolitan Grand Lodge.
