W.Bro Wes Pierce installed before a record attendance
On Wednesday 18th February, Amwell Lodge No. 6459 met at Mayflower Place, Hertingfordbury, for the Installation of Worshipful Brother Wes Pierce as Master for the ensuing year.
W.Bro Wes Pierce is known to many across the Province through his work with the Provincial Mentoring Team, supporting Brethren at all stages of their Masonic journey. He’s also our very own Events Secretary here at the Fleet House Light Blues Club, where he helps create opportunities for newer members to connect, build friendships, and become more involved in the wider life of the Province.
Having joined Freemasonry in his early twenties, W.Bro Wes Pierce brings with him over two decades of experience in the Craft. Having previously taken the Chair in London, he now returns to lead in Hertfordshire with a clear enthusiasm and commitment to the Province. His passion for Amwell Lodge, and for Freemasonry in Hertfordshire more broadly, was evident throughout the evening.
The meeting took place at a time of positive growth for Amwell, with nine Initiates and several Joining Members having joined over the past year. This was reflected in an excellent turnout on the night, with 86 Brethren in attendance — believed to be the largest since the Lodge’s consecration — including around 40 guests of the new Master.
Visitors travelled from across Hertfordshire, including Hertford, Queen’s Oak, Hertfordshire Regiment, and Old Hertfordians, as well as The Herts Scots Lodge, Salisbury Union and the Lodge of True Aim. The evening also welcomed Brethren from further afield, including Hampshire and Isle of Wight, Metropolitan London, Surrey, Norfolk, and Essex.
Wes is a strong advocate to re-introduce a tradition which has dwindle in recent years – to extend an invitation to current Masters of other lodges that meet at the same Masonic Centre, in this case Mayflower Place in Hertingfordbury, in the hope that they in turn do the same.
Such a strong attendance highlighted the value of visiting within Freemasonry. Bringing together Brethren from different Lodges and Provinces not only strengthens existing friendships but also helps to build new connections and a greater sense of unity across the Craft. It was particularly encouraging to see this reflected so clearly on the evening.
The meeting was further distinguished by the presence of a number of senior Brethren, including all five Assistant Provincial Grand Masters of Hertfordshire, alongside the Provincial Grand Secretary, Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, Provincial Grand Mentor, and Provincial Grand Communications Officer.
A memorable moment came with an unexpected knock at the Lodge door, when the Provincial Grand Master for Hertfordshire, Right Worshipful Brother Neil Connolly, demanding admission — a welcome surprise that added to the occasion.
The ceremony itself was conducted to a high standard, with the Installation carried out with confidence and care. A particularly appreciated inclusion was the address to the Organist, delivered by the newly installed Master.
During the meeting, the Lodge was also presented with its Grand Patron Certificate by APGM W.Bro Martin Francis, in recognition of its support for the Hertfordshire 2030 Festival.
The evening concluded with a well-attended Festive Board, reflecting the strong spirit of fellowship on display throughout, and raising £1,235 for charity.
Overall, the meeting was a clear example of Freemasonry at its best — with strong support for a new Master, excellent attendance from across the Province and beyond, and a clear demonstration of the importance and enjoyment of visiting.
