Dagmar 2262: From Russia to Rugby, with Love

The Dagmar Lodge No. 2262 was consecrated at the Anglers Rest Hotel, Wraysbury on Thursday, 5th July 1888 by the V.W. Bro. Rev. J.S. Brownrigg, ProvGChap, Deputy Provincial Grand Master of the Province of Berkshire & Buckinghamshire (Berks & Bucks became separate Provinces in 1890). The Lodge was established due to the desire of members within London Lodges to continue their Masonic activities during the summer months. A group of Masons from Lodges in the East End of London approached a local Lodge, Brownrigg No. 1638, to sponsor the petition to Grand Lodge to form Dagmar Lodge. Meetings were held at the Anglers Rest until 1922, though installation meetings were often held in London under dispensation. During 1923, meetings were held at the Manor Hotel, Datchet, and in 1924, the Lodge settled in the Masonic Hall, Slough, until 2022, when it relocated to Bletchley.

The Lodge is named after Maria Feodorovna (26 November 1847 - 13 October 1928), born Princess Dagmar of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glücksburg, who became Empress Consort of Russia as the spouse of Emperor Alexander III. She was the second daughter of King Christian IX of Denmark and sister of Queen Alexandra (wife of the Prince of Wales, later Edward VII). The Danish princesses were popular in Victorian London and noted for their good works. During the Great War, she served as president of Russia’s Red Cross, and the cross on the banner reflects that fact. The hearts on the Dagmar Lodge crest come from the Danish Royal Coat of Arms.

In 2022, Dagmar Lodge 2262 embraced the spirit of rugby, becoming a special interest lodge that celebrates both the camaraderie of the sport and the brotherhood of Freemasonry. If you share a passion for rugby and are looking to engage in a friendly 'away match,' they welcome you to reach out. Contact the Secretary of Dagmar Lodge 2262 to arrange a visit and experience the unique blend of tradition and teamwork that defines them.

If you would like to be part of a Freemasons' lodge in Buckinghamshire that has a special interest in rugby, please use this link to express your interest: https://buckspgl.org/join