PUBLISHED MARCH 2025
Ampthill Lodge No. 2490 has long valued its history, friendships and wider Masonic connections. In January 2025, a delegation from Ampthill travelled to Coimbatore in Southern India to visit Lodge Ampthill No. 3682 EC, within the Madras UGLE Masonic District.
The visit also reflected the historic connection between Ampthill Lodge No. 2490 and Lodge Ampthill No. 3682 EC, which was consecrated in India in 1914 under the name of Lord Ampthill, founder of Ampthill Lodge in Bedfordshire and later Pro Grand Master of England.
Members of Ampthill Lodge No. 2490 during their visit to Lodge Ampthill No. 3682 EC in Coimbatore, Southern India.
Freemasonry in India
Freemasonry has a long and distinguished history in India, dating back to the eighteenth century during the period of British administration across the subcontinent. Over time, Lodges were established throughout many major cities, developing their own traditions while maintaining strong links to the wider Masonic world.
Today, Freemasonry in India continues to preserve many historic customs, ceremonial traditions and charitable activities, reflecting both its international foundations and its unique local identity.
The Visit
In January 2025, a delegation from Ampthill Lodge No. 2490 travelled to Coimbatore in Southern India to visit Lodge Ampthill No. 3682 EC, part of the Madras UGLE Masonic District. The visit had been carefully planned over a considerable period, with contact first established by W. Bro. Ben Keenan and the necessary arrangements supported by Ian Church, Assistant Provincial Secretary. The Lodge Secretary in India, Sampath, also played an important role in helping coordinate the visit and ensuring the delegation received a warm welcome.
The visit included time spent at several Masonic centres and provided the delegation with a valuable opportunity to experience Freemasonry in a different cultural and historical setting.
The principal Masonic occasion was the Installation Meeting at Lodge Ampthill No. 3682 EC. Members of the visiting delegation were pleased to play an active part in the proceedings, with Ian Church and W. Bro. Ben Keenan delivering addresses to the Wardens and Brethren. At the Festive Board, the visitors were also able to bring a familiar Ampthill tradition to India by welcoming the new Master with the Master’s Song.
The visit was a memorable reminder that Freemasonry creates friendships and connections that extend well beyond individual towns, Provinces and countries. For Ampthill Lodge No. 2490, it was a special opportunity to strengthen the bond between two Lodges sharing the Ampthill name.
“Freemasonry creates friendships and connections that extend across countries, cultures and generations.”
The Brethren of Ampthill Lodge were grateful for the warmth, hospitality and friendship shown throughout the visit. The experience created lasting memories and strengthened the special connection between Ampthill Lodge No. 2490 and Lodge Ampthill No. 3682 EC.