Chaucer Lodge History

Since 1875

In Brief

It’s true—we are an old Lodge, founded in 1875—and in 2025 we will celebrate our 150th anniversary in style.

However, we come from truly humble beginnings.

We were founded at the Bridge House Hotel in Southwark on 16 February 1875, formed by a mix of senior and newly initiated Freemasons—testament to the Lodge’s broad appeal.

What is in a name?

Many who join or visit our Lodge ask how it came to be called “Chaucer Lodge.”

One account from the time tells us the Lodge was named to perpetuate the connection of the poet Chaucer with the borough of Southwark, where it was formed. It may also be relevant that only a few days before the founding of Chaucer Lodge, the famous Tabard Inn—celebrated in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales—was demolished. Perhaps the name marked this local event. Regardless, our Lodge name stands and endures.

Chaucer Lodge met at the Bridge House Hotel for 25 years before moving to the West End—first to St James’s Restaurant, then to the Trocadero in 1902. Since then, we have met at the Criterion, the Hotel Cecil on the Strand, and the Café Royal on Regent Street, where we remained until 1971 (except during the war).

We are now a growing Lodge, with plans afoot to welcome both new candidates to Freemasonry and existing Masons.

Founding Members of Chaucer Lodge

2nd July 1875

Below are the names of the founding members of Chaucer Lodge who formed us over 150 years ago. It's amazing to think a group of individuals can last as long as this but whilst the names change the ethics, morals and friendship remain the same.

Our first Worshipful Master:

W. Bro Thomas Joseph Sabine

2nd of July 1875

Founding Members

Thomas J. Sabine

James C. Mason

Edward S. Stidolph

Alfred P. Steadman

William Hudson

William J. Kemp

Charles W. Hudson

Hy Faija

A.J. Hawkes

Charles Allen

Chaucer Lodge No. 1540

Chingford Masonic Centre, Forest Approach, London, E4 7AZ