Priory Lodge celebrate 160 years with history, presentations and style
Occupying the Masters chair Johnson Beharry VC leads the celebration with fellow ‘Antiques Roadshow’ guest Mark Smith adding to the event
Priory Lodge No. 1000 marked its 160th anniversary at Saxon Hall, Southend on Thursday, 18th September. Johnson Beharry VC presided as Master at this military-themed event, honouring the Lodge's Royal Artillery association and their member David Nelson, who was awarded the VC for his bravery at 'The Affair at Néry' in World War I.
Gary Myers presented an overview of the early history of the Lodge and also announced the publication of his book, ‘The Official History of Priory Lodge.’ Compiled over two years, the book contains detailed records of many meetings, along with a listing of nearly every member showing their dates of ceremonies in their progression to becoming a Master Mason, as well as an extensive section on the two world wars. Every member received a copy of the book.
A delightful part of the meeting was the celebration of well-loved member David Saunders’ 50 years in Freemasonry and in particular, with the Priory Lodge. Guest, Mark Smith, recently retired Assistant Provincial Grand Master, interviewed David about his masonic career, then presented him with his 50-year certificate and lapel pin, together with a personal letter from the Provincial Grand Master, Paul Tarrant. The occasion was well received by all in attendance and David appreciated the enthusiastic round of applause.
The lodge also celebrated one of their new younger members, Catalin Chirilia, who was presented with his Grand Lodge certificate although, due to a spelling error with his name, Catalin was unable to sign the certificate, as it will need to be corrected first.
Mark Smith returned to the floor and delivered a talk entitled, ‘A day on the Road Show’. Sharing his journey in television and role as the ‘Medals Expert’ on the Antiques Roadshow with his unique style of clarity, sombre and humour which was greatly appreciated by the audience.
Personalised wooden mauls crafted by John Heron were given to Johnson Beharry and Mark Smith to commemorate the occasion. Members also thanked Secretary, John Bird and Treasurer, Gary Myers for their dedicated efforts over the past three years in revitalising the Lodge and organising this very successful event.
The Festive Board laid out with round tables to accommodate the 90+ attending was an equal success with a moving response from Johnson as Worshipful Master, reflecting on his own engagements in battle that lead to him receiving the VC for heroism and he coupled his address with Priory’s member David Nelson VC: he received a prolonged standing round of applause.
Before the meeting in the Maplin suite, Priory Lodge artifacts were displayed, including old records, photos of members and past venues, handwritten reports from 'The Affair at Néry', and a video* with archive footage of the battle and Johnson Beharry’s experiences.
Priory Lodge, established in 1865, has been an integral part of Essex Masonry for 160 years. The meeting provided an overview of several significant events from its distinguished history and with the addition of new members, the Lodge’s enduring legacy is poised to continue for many years to come.
'*' The video footage of the ‘The Affair at Néry’ can be viewed on this link www.youtube.com/watch?v=cHsRi08iNs8
There are several news stories within this site about Johnson Beharry and Mark Smith with the following worthy of a second read:
Johnson Beharry - Surviving today and dealing with tomorrow “You can turn things around”
https://www.essexfreemasons.org.uk/news/jb-002
Mark Smith – These boots that were made for flying have landed a place in history
https://www.essexfreemasons.org.uk/news/these-boots-that-were-made-for-flying
Mark Smith memoirs book release January 2026 – MEDAL MAN – DAD, ME, and the SECOND WORLD WAR - further details can be viewed here https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/468414/the-medal-man-by-smith-mark/9780241738108
Photos:
Top: Members with their guests
Left: David Saunders being congratulated by Mark Smith
Right: Members with Johnson Beharry
Left: Selection of photos from the evening
