There is a fascinating connection between Freemasons, poetry, dinner and Robert Burns.
Robert Burns is regarded as a pioneer of the Romantic movement, and after his death he became a great source of inspiration to the founders of both liberalism and socialism, and a cultural icon in Scotland and among the Scottish diaspora around the world. Celebration of his life and work became almost a national charismatic cult during the 19th and 20th centuries, and his influence has long been strong on Scottish literature and Freemasonry in particular.

Robert Burns was initiated an Entered Apprentice in Lodge St. David, Tarbolton on 4 July 1781, at the age of 23. His initiation fee was 12s 6d, and paid on the same date.

On 27 July 1784, he was elected "Depute Master" of the lodge of St. David at the ripe young age of 25.
Burns was a revolutionary of sorts and the poem A Man’s A Man For All That is an plea for international brotherhood and asserts the principles of the French Revolution in this ode to equality and honesty.

Burns was exalted a companion in the Holy Royal Arch Degree in May 1787 at St. Ebbe's Lodge, Eyemouth. The companions unanimously agreed to admit Burns without paying the necessary fees, as they were greatly honoured to have such a great poet and man like Burns as part of their chapter.

Freemasonry's spirit of Brotherhood had a special place in Burns's heart. "For Burns, Freemasonry was a compound of mysticism and conviviality. We can think of no better environment to hear the words of the Masonic Poet laureate than in our Festive Board dinners. Which is why, across the world, millions of Freemasons will be reciting his poetry with their best Mel Gibdon-esque accents.

Robert Burns born 5th January 1759 and passed to the Grand Lodge above on 21st July 1796.

If you would like to be part of a Freemasonry in Buckinghamshire, please join us by following this link: https://buckspgl.org/join