Francis Stephen (Frank) Creswell was initiated into Powell Lodge on 23 rd June 1941. He was installed as Worshipful Master in 1961 (Note: In those days even with natural progression it took 20 years to reach the Chair!). He became a founder member of Bristol Installed Masters Lodge in 1967 and was appointed Provincial Junior Grand Warden in 1976.
Frank was renowned for his distinctive booming voice as Lodge Chaplain and in delivering the Proclamation at Installation meetings. His experience as a chorister over many years at St Alban’s Church, Redland stood him in good stead to lead the singing of “The Sweet Nightingale” song at Lodge After Meetings. In 1991 the lodge presented Frank with a masonic gold watch to mark his 50 years in the Craft. Frank was still actively involved with the Lodge well into his nineties.
On his passing to the Grand Lodge Above at a Nursing Home in Almondsbury at the age of 98 in 1996, his personal effects, including his 50 Year watch, were passed to his brother in Hampshire. When he died the watch was passed on to his son, Peter – Frank’s nephew. Although not a mason himself he was anxious to learn of his Uncle Frank’s time and achievements in the Craft and in Powell Lodge and the Province of Bristol in particular.
Peter contacted Gary Williams, Provincial Grand Librarian and Archivist and arranged to visit Freemasons’ Hall. He was given a short tour of the Hall and several members of Powell Lodge met him and shared fond recollections of dear Frank. He decided that the watch should be returned to it’s rightful place – to Powell Lodge and the Province of Bristol.
The Provincial Grand Master, Jonathan Davis and the Deputy Provincial Grand Master, Richard Lewis, Past Master of Powell Lodge thanked Peter for his generosity and were pleased to receive the watch on behalf of the Lodge and the Province.
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