The History of the "Memory" Lodge

The "Memory" Lodge No 4264 was founded in 1921 to further develop the true principles of Freemasonry in the Deeside area by providing additional accommodation for members and would-be members of the Craft. The name "Memory" was chosen to perpetuate the memory of the late Bro Harry Charles Carter, Senior Warden of St Marks Lodge No 2423, who gave his life during the Battle of the Somme in 1916. A petition was granted to St Mark's Lodge on 3rd June 1921 to form a new lodge in his honour, and thus The Memory Lodge was consecrated on 27th August 1921 at Freemasons Hall, Hunter Street, Chester.

After the consecration, meetings were held in Lloyds Bank Chambers, Connah's Quay. At the first meeting on 21st September 1921, two candidates were initiated: Bro Hugh Jones Ferguson and Bro Albert Reuben Powell. The Festive Board followed in the drill hall. The lodge grew quickly, initiating 18 candidates in 1922 and 16 in 1923.

By 1926, Memory Lodge was well established. On 1st November, it purchased the Farfield Hall Estate — including the main building, two cottages, and 13 acres — for £3,000. An additional £1,163.18.8d was spent extending the building to include a lodge room and dining hall. Four founders acted as trustees: Samuel Vickers, Benjamin Vickers, Henry Bowker Birch, and William Bushell.

The foundation stone was laid by Rt. Worshipful Bro. Sir H.L. Watkin Williams Wynn, Baronet, C.B., Provincial Grand Master of North Wales, on 10th December 1926. By 1927, the extension was complete and used by both Memory and St Mark's Lodges. In 1928, a successful Garden Party was held to raise funds — the first of many events to maintain and improve Farfield Hall.

Throughout the 1930s, the lodge thrived. Before WWII, Bro John Hughes became the 224th member. Wartime challenges led to suspended meetings in 1942–43 due to blackout restrictions and fuel shortages. By 1944, meetings resumed more regularly.

On 7th February 1945, a warrant was issued for Wepre Lodge No 6055, consecrated on 26th September 1945 at Farfield Hall. Freemasonry continued to grow post-war. In 1951, Memory Lodge of Instruction was formed. In 1958, a Provincial Grand Lodge meeting was held at Farfield Masonic Hall. On 4th November 1959, Kelsterton Lodge No 7681 was founded and consecrated on 5th December.

In the 1980s, Freemasonry remained popular. On 10th December 1986, a warrant was issued for The Connah's Quay Lodge No 9219, consecrated on 8th April 1987 in the presence of The Right Honourable The Lord Kenyon, Provincial Grand Master.