MEMBERS PROFILES

Joined Masonry – 2011

Education: I discovered Chemistry at an early age and went through my schools focussing on the sciences and finally achieved a degree in Chemistry. I worked in a Civil Service Laboratory for 12 years and then moved into Scientific sales, selling analytical equipment. I did this for 37 years and retired in 2021.
My hobbies have always been, reading, stamp collecting, astronomy and ornithology.

I started my Masonic Journey in 2011. A friend had become a mason a couple of years earlier and finally talked me into joining. I knew about Freemasonry because I had 2 uncles who were masons, but I was very young, busy and had a family so joining never occurred to me. On reflection I wish I had joined earlier. When I did join it was because of my friend and curiosity. What I learned very quickly when I joined was the friendship, camaraderie and fun. I have made so many new friends who I would never have known had it not been for Freemasonry. We are brothers and we have fun, challenges and the ability to achieve good through our charitable work.

From the moment I joined I progressed through the offices every year and became Master 6 years later in 2017. I then became Secretary in 2019, which Is still my main Office. I am also Membership Officer and Library and Museum Representative. My role as Secretary is very extensive and requires a lot of time and effort. It means I get involved and have attended many Masonic meetings and events in the East Kent Province and Grand Lodge, too many to mention. I helped organise an Open Day at the Masonic Centre in Gravesend, which was for the public, and was successful I attracting new members. I have also written articles for the Provincial Magazine, researched the Lodges 273 year History and produced 2 Historical books and catalogued the Lodges artifacts and memorabilia.

Masonry is now my main hobby. It’s a very rewarding past time. You meet so many people and some will become close friends and others, acquaintances. I enjoy learning ritual, which isn’t for everyone, and being part of a much larger historical organisation with its many traditions. Also, knowing that many charities and individuals benefit from the money we give and raise through our efforts. The teaching of Freemasonry is to guide the individual through a path of learning and enlightenment and to become a better person. I like to think that I have followed this path.

My message to prospective members is very simple. Freemasonry is a hobby and family, and work come first. However, like most hobbies, the benefit comes from the time and effort that you are prepared to put in, the more involved the bigger the reward.

One of the most interesting aspects of Freemasonry for me is the number of famous people who are or have been Mason’s, such as:

Prince Philip, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh.           Arthur Conan Doyle

Sir Alf Ramsey                                                           Sir Alexander Fleming

Sir Ernest Shackleton                                               Rudyard Kipling

William Hogarth                                                         King George VI

Peter Sellers                                                              Winston Churchill

Benjamin Franklin                                                     Buzz Aldrin

Interesting Fact: Through an incredible series of events and whilst investigating the Lodges history, I reconnected with a school classmate who I had not seen or heard from for 50 years. We now meet regularly and enjoy each other’s company and our Freemasonry together.
 

A Masonic Journey: The Story of David Robert Walden

Beginnings and Personal Background

David Robert Walden, fondly known simply as David, began his professional journey as an apprentice electrician at the Empire Paper Mill in Greenhithe. It was here, in 1982, that he met Ann, the love of his life and now his late wife. David's career mirrored the changing industrial landscape of his time. When the Empire Paper Mill closed in 1993, he transitioned to consultancy, aiding in the decommissioning of the mill.

He then moved to Blue Circle Northfleet, staying until its closure in 2008. This pivotal moment led him to work in London, where he brought his expertise to renowned institutions such as Selfridges, Imperial College London, and a corporate investment bank. Eventually, David joined the Tate Modern in 2012. By 2016, he had become the Senior Estates Manager for the Tate Galleries, overseeing utilities, landscapes, and buildings across all their sites.

Outside of work, David enjoys gardening, DIY (albeit less these days), and cherishes time spent with family and friends.

Discovering Freemasonry

David’s journey into Freemasonry began out of sheer curiosity. For years, he attended social events like Christmas balls, ladies’ nights, and gatherings organized by friends and family who were Freemasons. These experiences planted a seed of intrigue that eventually grew into a desire to understand what Freemasonry truly entailed.

In 2013, he took the leap, proposed by W.Bro Ron Sutch and seconded by W.Bro Colin Hampson. The following year, he progressed through the ceremonies—passing in February and being raised to Master Mason in April 2014.

Like many initiates, David approached his initiation with trepidation. However, those fears quickly gave way to admiration and appreciation for the ceremony, which he now fondly recalls as an experience to be enjoyed.

A Life Shaped by Freemasonry

Freemasonry became more than just an organization for David—it became a cornerstone of friendship and companionship. Through it, he expanded his social circle, fostering connections within his lodge and beyond at the Gravesend Hall.

David steadily rose through the ranks, beginning as Steward in 2015 and progressing through the offices of Inner Guard, Junior Deacon, Senior Deacon, Junior Warden, and Senior Warden. His dedication and commitment will culminate in September 2024 when he assumes the esteemed role of Worshipful Master.

Among his most impactful moments was discovering that his great-grandfather had also been a Freemason. This revelation deepened his sense of connection to the fraternity, linking him to a legacy he hadn’t previously known.

Reflections and Inspiration

For David, Freemasonry represents the ideals of friendship and camaraderie. It has not only broadened his social network but also enriched his understanding of different cultures and charitable endeavors.

To prospective members, he extends an open invitation:
"The Lodge of Freedom No. 77 is a friendly, down-to-earth lodge where the hand of friendship is always extended. We welcome all newcomers with warmth and fellowship."

Fun Facts and Memorable Moments

David often reflects on the lighter side of Masonic life. Whether it’s a memorable anecdote from lodge gatherings or humorous moments shared with fellow brethren, he treasures these instances as reminders of the joy and unity Freemasonry brings.

A Legacy of Fellowship

David Robert Walden’s story is a testament to the transformative power of Freemasonry. It’s a journey of curiosity turned into a lifelong commitment—a narrative filled with personal growth, cherished friendships, and a deep appreciation for the bonds that unite brethren across generations.

“W Bro. Tony Harvey, PJGD, was Initiated into Pioneer Lodge No. 9065, the Scout Lodge in Derbyshire, in 1991.  Since then he has joined many other Lodges and Orders, often in connection with Scouting.

Professionally Tony is a leadership consultant and coach, and an author.  His interests are Scouting, driving fast cars and spending time in the outdoors.

He was encouraged to become a Freemason by Scouting friends.  It took him five years to decide and now wishes he had that time back - it was one of the best decisions of his life.  

As a Freemason he has served as Master of five Lodges, two Chapters and several Mark and other Lodges.  His main contribution to his Lodges has been as Secretary and Charity Steward. Provincially he has held many roles, including Provincial Grand Mentor, Provincial Grand Membership Officer, Provincial Junior Grand Warden and, in the Mark, Provincial Grand Secretary.  Nowadays he is in much demand as a masonic writer and speaker, travelling the world to address large audiences on membership and the history of Freemasonry.  He was UGLE's 2012 Prestonian Lecturer and the 2018 Cornwallis Lecturer.

Freemasonry is now a major part of Tony's life.  He firmly believes that the world would be a better place if everyone lived by its values and precepts and is keen to give more people the opportunity to join, providing they are suitable of course. 

Tony spends a lot of time encouraging and supporting newer members, especially through various Light Blues Clubs.  His advice to them is 'turn up, take part, ask questions, work together.’ “

Please visit his website to learn more about him:

https://prestonian2012.org.uk/about-tony/ 

My Masonic journey started in 2008 when I asked my best friend Jez why he was never available for a curry and a pint (or 2) on Thursday’s and he told me that he was a Mason and invited me to meet some other members of the Lodge – I was offered the opportunity to .

Both my Father and Grandfather were both Masons although for some reason, I did not discover this until after they had both passed away and I had joined the Lodge of Freedom. My sister handed me a bag with their regalia and certificates. It turns out my Father was in our daughter Lodge, Libertus Secunda (Freedom the second) and my Grandfather was in Coronation Lodge No 2931 in Tientsin in pre-communist China! I intend to investigate further about my Grandfather’s Masonic career as all that I know is that he was a member in September, 1949. I only discovered that he had one leg after he died! We were not close!!

I passed through the ranks in The Lodge of Freedom and became Master in 2015 and again in 2020 & 2021 (the Covid years). I also became a member of Gravesham Royal Arch Chapter in 2016. I also joined my old school Lodge, Roffensian Lodge in 2016, this has since become The Light Blues Lodge.

One thing that I am particularly pleased and surprised to discover, is that I appear to have the capacity to learn quite long pieces of text, which can be very useful for some of our rituals.

In 2023 I was promoted to the active Provincial rank of Provincial Junior Grand Deacon, which was a great honour and gave me the opportunity to visit many Lodges throughout East Kent.

It has given me great pleasure to re-unite with old school friends and to make so many new friends (brothers). I am a PIG (Permanently Invited Guest) at a number of Lodges that meet in Gravesend and one that meets in London. I have recently taken on the role of Guest Organist at two Lodges, which is quite an achievement for someone without a musical bone in their body.

Writing this profile has given me the opportunity to reflect on what I have done for Freemasonry and what Freemasonry has done for me. I am proud of my achievements and thoroughly enjoy the friendships I have made and of what Freemasonry does for charity with the substantial money that we raise.

With regards to my career outside of Freemasonry, I have been in sales, working for companies such as Brother and Canon selling Typewriters, Fax Machines and Personal Computers before moving back into Insurance, specialising in the hospitality sector. I am now retired, but keep myself busy taxiing SEN children to school and back.

An amazing story is on the way.

My name is Liam Barnard, and I’ve been a Mason since 2016. I joined through the Universities Scheme while pursuing a PhD as a mature student, connected with SOAS, University of London. By profession, I’m a musician and academic, but my main role now is being a full-time carer and single parent to my 10-year-old daughter, who has special needs.

Masonry has been a transformative part of my life. I recently completed my term as Master of my mother lodge in London—a journey that has been nothing short of incredible. Beyond that, I serve as the resident organist for the Lodge of Freedom and several other lodges across London, as well as the East and West Kent provinces. Music has always been a big part of who I am, and being able to combine this with my Masonic work has been deeply rewarding.

As a full-time single parent, Masonry has become my social life, offering me the opportunity to connect with like-minded men. It has opened up a world to me that I might not otherwise have had access to, given my daily responsibilities at home and at the school gate. Masonry has truly become a lifeline, providing community, camaraderie, and inspiration.

I’m also the Membership Secretary of the West Kent Light Blues Club, a group I’d recommend to any brother still wearing a light blue apron. It’s a fantastic way to get involved, meet new people, and find support and encouragement in your Masonic journey.

The Lodge of Freedom is a truly ancient and remarkable lodge. The brethren here are some of the best people I’ve ever had the privilege to meet. If you’re considering joining, I can’t recommend it enough. Take the plunge—you won’t regret it, and it could be one of the best decisions you ever make.

Fun Fact: I once had a top-ten hit in Uganda with my African pop band, Monkfish.

I’m Luke Aram, and I became a Mason in 2024. By trade, I’m a welder and fabricator, and I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and solving problems. Outside of work, my passions include engineering, American football, car modification, and enjoying fine cigars.

My journey into Masonry started with curiosity. A few of my friends were already Masons, and their experiences intrigued me. I decided to join because I wanted to be part of a community that not only helps others through charity but also helps individuals grow into better people. For me, Masonry seemed like the perfect way to make a difference while working on my own self-improvement.

I didn’t have any fears or hesitations before joining, as everything about the fraternity aligned with my values. One of the most meaningful aspects of my journey so far is the realization that I’m likely the first in my family to become a Mason. It’s a point of pride and a personal milestone that I hold dear.

Currently, I serve as a Steward in my lodge. While I haven’t had the chance to participate in specific events or projects yet, I’m eager to contribute more as I continue to grow within the fraternity.

For me, Masonry is about much more than just being part of a brotherhood. It’s an opportunity to help others and to learn important lessons that carry over into everyday life. Since joining, I’ve noticed that I’ve become more tolerant of other people’s actions, which has been a valuable change in how I interact with the world around me.

I live by the belief that “Nothing is a problem unless you allow it to become one.” It’s a simple but powerful reminder to stay grounded and focused. On a lighter note, I also like to remind myself and others, “Don’t sweat the petty things, and don’t pet the sweaty things.”

Joining Masonry has already had a positive impact on my life, and I’m excited to see where this journey will take me in the future.