Corinthian, Celebrating Half a Century of Dedication.
Report by Phil Heath
Corinthian Lodge No 1208, was consecrated on the 17th February 1868 at the Licence’s Assembly Rooms on the sea front at Dover, in the presence of the Right Worshipful, the Provincial Grand Master, Viscount Holmesdale, M.P., by Worshipful Brother Henry Muggeridge, a Past Master of the Lion and Lamb Lodge No. 227 (now 192) who installed as first Master of Corinthian Lodge, Brother George Adamson of 199.
At this meeting eight gentlemen were proposed for initiation and eleven as joining members. Trinity Pilots predominated, but veterinary surgeons, licensed victuallers, printers, tailors, and grocers were among the number. Brother Adamson must have worked very hard. At his first meeting in March, he initiated eight candidates and admitted the joining members. Incidentally, the Lodge opened at 6.15 pm and closed at 9.45 pm. the meetings were held at the Royal Hotel in Clarence Place, Dover.
In September 1886, the lodge moved from the Royal Hotel to the Freemason’s Hall, in Snargate St, Dover, a building recently acquired. Ten shillings per member was donated as their contribution to the decoration and furnishing of their new home.
Taking a leap forward to 18 November 1974, when Eric William Gee’s was initiation into the Corinthian Lodge No.1208. His earlier experiences as an apprentice electrical engineer and establishing a family by marring his sweetheart Jenifer in 1969, they brought their first bungalow in St Margarets at Cliff, close to the fire station, laying a solid foundation for the values he would bring into Freemasonry. Eric’s transition from being an electrician and retained firefighter to starting his own electrical contracting business speaks of his enterprising spirit and commitment to challenging work.
Eric and Jennifer with their Family
Together, Eric and Jenifer’s journey, raising two sons Stephen and Mark, and then becoming grandparents to Mathew, William, Jacob, and Oliver—paints a picture of a family-centric life that mirrors the values of camaraderie and support found in Freemasonry.
On the 20th of January 2025, the Worshipful Master Eric W. Gee celebrated a significant milestone, marking his 50 years of dedication and service to Freemasonry. The occasion was even more special with the presence of his wife, Jenifer, and family, who supported him throughout his journey.
During the celebration, Trevor Carter, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master, delivered a heartfelt overview of Eric’s life and his remarkable contributions to the Corinthian Lodge. His words highlighted Eric’s commitment, values, and the many ways he has positively impacted both the lodge and the broader community over the years.
As part of the ceremony, Trevor presented Eric with his 50-year certificate, a tangible recognition of his long-standing membership and unwavering dedication. Additionally, he passed on to Eric congratulations and best wishes from the Provincial Grand Master, further underlining the significance of this milestone in his Masonic journey.
The celebration not only honoured Eric’s past achievements but also served as an inspiration to current and future members of Corinthian Lodge, exemplifying the enduring values and brotherhood that Freemasonry embodies.
