When the Quarrymen were formed over a year ago. At our very first meeting it was decided that our main charitable giving would be based around raising funds for the Broken Column association.
The Broken Column Association was set up in 2001, for the widows of freemasons who have sadly passed to the grand lodge above. Dorset Broken Columns was initially set into 4 branches. Portland, Kinson, Wimborne and Poole. With the closure of Kinson some years ago there are now only 3 branches remaining. All the more reason they need our support.
The branches organise and run themselves, having their own treasurer/secretary/chairlady. Each branch has a different approach to the service they provide and do a wonderful job by bringing the group together frequently for socials, dining, coffee mornings or put on a trip to get the ladies out of the house and enjoying themselves for a short while each month. At events it is usual for a guest speaker to give a talk about any specific area of interest.
Throughout the Quarrymens inaugural year we have raised in excess of £2000 for our charitable giving; £750 of this so far has been for the Broken Column Association. We have decided that as there are 3 branches within Dorset and would donate £250 to each of them. This is for them to do with as they see fit.
The first of these donations was to the Wimborne Branch on 21st March 2023, Where WBro. Dan Martin PPrGStwd presented Sharon and Barbara with their cheque. (See title image) As well as filling the role as speaker, giving a short talk on the history, aims and objectives of the Widows Sons in general, and the Quarrymen in particular.
On the 17th of April. WBro. Brian Tritton PAGDC went along to the Portland branch to present their cheque. Brian has also agreed to do the talk for their branch on the 11th of September 2023. A number of the Quarrymen will also be in attendance to support Brian and to answer any questions the widows may have.
The photograph shows left to right, Secretary, Jean Duncan, ChairPerson, Thelma Green and Brian Tritton, Member of Dorset Quarrymen Widows Sons Masonic Bikers Association.
On the 25th of May 2023 WBro Phil Smith accompanied by Bro John Vickers , two of the Quarrymen went along to the Poole branch’s meeting to present them with their cheque of £250 where it was greatly received by the group. Phil also took the time to invite the group to his ladies evening, in his capacity as master of his lodge & will also be serving as a guest speaker at an upcoming broken column lunch.
