Fenland Farmers’ Lodge No. 9933, a relatively new yet vibrant Lodge in Cambridgeshire, is celebrating its unique role in Freemasonry. Consecrated in 2016, the Lodge has already established a remarkable membership of 46, with many members either directly involved in farming or associated trades. A notable feature of this Lodge is its deep family ties, and this year, those connections have been beautifully demonstrated in an event that will be remembered for years to come.
At the heart of Fenland Farmers’ Lodge is the Ellis family, whose roots in Freemasonry run deep. Four members of the Ellis family are active participants in the Lodge, with W.Bro. K.A. (Danny) Ellis, PAGDC, being one of the key founding members and currently serving as the Lodge Secretary. Danny’s son, W.Bro. Matthew Ellis, ProvGStdB, holds the important position of Tyler, while his grandson, W.Bro. Jake Ellis, was installed as the Lodge’s Worshipful Master on November 8th, 2024.
The Installation of W.Bro. Jake Ellis into the Chair of King Solomon was a significant milestone, not only for the Ellis family but also for the Lodge as a whole. The event saw 108 brethren in attendance, with the Lodge room brimming with excitement and camaraderie. Jake Ellis is the second Initiate of Fenland Farmers’ Lodge and, most notably, the first “home-grown” Worshipful Master. His installation marks the continuation of a strong family tradition that has been passed down through the generations.
Leading a team of dedicated officers, W.Bro. Jake Ellis now presides over a group of “light blue” officers all of whom were initiated into Fenland Farmers’ Lodge. This includes his younger sibling, Bro. Brodie Ellis, who was appointed and invested as Senior Deacon, further solidifying the family presence in the Lodge.
The Ellis family is not alone in making Fenland Farmers’ Lodge a true family affair. The Lodge also boasts several other multi-generational Freemason families. W.Bro. Gordon Easton, PProvSGW, is joined by his son, Bro. Roger Easton, and his son-in-law, Bro. Eric Franke, who serves as Senior Warden. Likewise, Bro. Philip Bradshaw, Junior Warden, shares the Lodge with his son, Bro. Marcus Bradshaw. Not to be forgotten, Bro. David Lee and his son, Bro. Buster Lee, continue the strong tradition of Freemasonry in the Lodge.
It is rare to find so many active officers in a Lodge, spanning three generations. The commitment and dedication of these families serve as a testament to the lasting values and principles of Freemasonry. As we were reminded in the Address to the Brethren at Jake’s Installation, “May the principles and tenets of Freemasonry be transmitted pure and unpolluted, through this Lodge from generation to generation.”
As Fenland Farmers’ Lodge continues to grow and flourish, the commitment to family, tradition, and the principles of Freemasonry remain central to its identity. With a strong foundation built on generational ties, the Lodge is well-positioned to continue making a lasting impact in the lives of its members, their families, and the wider community.
The story of Fenland Farmers’ Lodge No. 9933 is one of legacy, family, and the enduring power of Freemasonry to unite individuals across generations. It is a shining example of how the values of friendship and charity can be passed down, strengthening the Lodge and enriching the lives of all who are a part of it.
