The Full History of Lord Warden Lodge No. 1096
Founding and Early Beginnings (1866–1900)
Lord Warden Lodge No. 1096 was founded in 1866, during a period of rapid growth for Freemasonry across England. Deal, with its naval traditions, strong civic identity, and close‑knit community, provided fertile ground for a new lodge built on fellowship, charity, and moral development.
The founding brethren were a mixture of local tradesmen, professionals, and naval officers stationed along the Kent coast. Their early meetings were held in various venues around the town, long before the lodge found its permanent home in Sondes Road. These formative years established the character of the lodge — friendly, dignified, and deeply connected to the community it served.
By the end of the 19th century, Lord Warden Lodge had become a respected institution in Deal, known for its commitment to charity and its strong attendance.
Below are the record books held by the United Grand Lodge of England, showing the founders and the fees they paid over the next 14 years.
A Lodge Through Changing Times (1900–1945)
The early 20th century brought both growth and challenge. As the world changed, so too did the lodge. Members served in the First World War, and the lodge provided support to families and the wider community during those difficult years.
Despite the hardships of wartime, the lodge continued to meet whenever possible, maintaining the continuity of its traditions. The interwar years saw renewed energy, with new members joining from across the district and the lodge strengthening its social and charitable activities.
The Second World War again tested the resilience of the lodge. Deal, being a coastal town, felt the impact of the conflict, yet the brethren remained steadfast. The lodge continued to operate, offering stability, fellowship, and a sense of purpose during uncertain times.

LORD WARDEN LODGE No 1096
James Frederick Moxham Lieut
Willaim Siddle Thompson Col Sergt
William George Chard Col Sergt
James Frederick Sutcliffe Lieut
Peter Ligerwood Lieutenant
George Gibbins Captain
All of the Royal Marines
Otto Krenchel D C M Lieutenant
Canadian Machine Gun Corps
The First Century and the Centenary Jewel (1945–1966)
The post‑war years brought a period of renewed optimism. Membership grew, ceremonies flourished, and the lodge became an important social centre for many families in Deal.
In 1966, Lord Warden Lodge celebrated its 100th anniversary — a milestone few lodges reach. To mark the occasion, the brethren commissioned the Centenary Jewel, a beautifully crafted emblem symbolising a century of unity, leadership, and Masonic continuity.
This jewel is worn on the collar of the Worshipful Master and passed down at each installation. It serves as a powerful reminder that leadership within the lodge is not owned but entrusted — a responsibility carried for a time and then handed on to the next brother.
Modernisation and Growth (1966–2016)
The second century of the lodge’s history saw significant evolution. Freemasonry itself was becoming more open and outward‑facing, and Lord Warden Lodge embraced this shift while preserving the dignity of its traditions.
During these decades:
- Membership broadened across professions and generations
- Social events expanded, including family gatherings, festive boards, and community activities
- The lodge strengthened its charitable contributions, supporting both local causes and national Masonic charities
- The building in Sondes Road became a well‑loved home for Masonic life in Deal
The lodge continued to thrive, adapting to modern expectations while remaining true to its founding principles of friendship, integrity, and charity.
The First Century and the Centenary Jewel (1945–1966)
The post‑war years brought a period of renewed optimism. Membership grew, ceremonies flourished, and the lodge became an important social centre for many families in Deal.
In 1966, Lord Warden Lodge celebrated its 100th anniversary — a milestone few lodges reach. To mark the occasion, the brethren commissioned the Centenary Jewel, a beautifully crafted emblem symbolising a century of unity, leadership, and Masonic continuity.
This jewel is worn on the collar of the Worshipful Master and passed down at each installation. It serves as a powerful reminder that leadership within the lodge is not owned but entrusted — a responsibility carried for a time and then handed on to the next brother.
Modernisation and Growth (1966–2016)
The second century of the lodge’s history saw significant evolution. Freemasonry itself was becoming more open and outward‑facing, and Lord Warden Lodge embraced this shift while preserving the dignity of its traditions.
During these decades:
- Membership broadened across professions and generations
- Social events expanded, including family gatherings, festive boards, and community activities
- The lodge strengthened its charitable contributions, supporting both local causes and national Masonic charities
- The building in Sondes Road became a well‑loved home for Masonic life in Deal
The lodge continued to thrive, adapting to modern expectations while remaining true to its founding principles of friendship, integrity, and charity.
The Sesquicentennial — 150 Years of Freemasonry (2016)
In 2016, Lord Warden Lodge reached its 150th anniversary, marking a century and a half of continuous Freemasonry. This remarkable milestone celebrated not only the longevity of the lodge but the dedication of the countless brethren who shaped its identity.
The sesquicentennial year was an opportunity to reflect on the lodge’s heritage, honour past Masters and members, and reaffirm the values that have guided the lodge since 1866.
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Lord Warden Lodge Today
Today, Lord Warden Lodge No. 1096 remains an active, welcoming, and respected lodge within the Province of East Kent. Its members come from all walks of life, united by a shared desire for fellowship, personal growth, and service to others.
The lodge continues to uphold the traditions established more than 150 years ago while embracing the openness and community engagement of modern Freemasonry. Whether through charitable work, social events, or the timeless ceremonies that form the heart of Masonic life, Lord Warden Lodge remains a vibrant part of Deal’s community.
Its history is not simply a record of dates and names — it is a living legacy carried forward by every brother who enters its doors.


