n a heartwarming and historic moment for Corinthian Lodge, the Provincial Grand Master of Northumberland, Kevin Peter Stannard, presented WBro Stewart Hall with a richly deserved 60-year certificate on Thursday 6th March 2025.
The evening was filled with warmth and reverence as Brethren gathered to celebrate an extraordinary Masonic journey that began on 8th March 1965, when Stewart Hall was first initiated alongside Donald Charles Ramsey. That ceremony was conducted by WBro Thomas Fishwick Hurrell, with Bro K Glass JW delivering the Tools and Bro P Harrison SW taking a leading role—names etched in the memory of Corinthian Lodge’s history.
Born on 3rd July 1940 on Wingrove Road in Newcastle, Stewart’s early years were marked by ambition and academic promise. He attended school in Wingrove and earned a scholarship to Atkinson Road School. At 15, he left education and joined the Post Office, where he served dutifully until retirement.
His Masonic career officially began when he was proposed by WBro J S Murray and seconded by WBro J R Burns (DC), with his ballot approved on 12th October 1964. Over the following six decades, Stewart exemplified loyalty and leadership through an impressive series of offices, including:
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Steward (1969)
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Inner Guard (1972)
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Junior Deacon (1973)
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Senior Deacon (1974)
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Junior Warden (1975)
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Senior Warden (1976)
His crowning achievement came on 14th February 1977, when he was installed into the Chair of King Solomon by WBro Peter Thompson, assisted by his Senior Warden, WBro William Gilpin, and Junior Warden, Bro J W Gordon. Stewart, in turn, installed WBro Gilpin as his successor the following year, delivering the Charge to the Master himself—a moment that underlined his deep knowledge and devotion.
Over the years, WBro Hall has remained a stalwart figure within the lodge. Whether sitting on the Finance and General Purposes Committee or stepping in for absent officers, his commitment has never waned. He currently serves as Junior Deacon, a role he continues to perform with characteristic humility and diligence.
Stewart’s Masonic legacy extends to his family as well. His son, Alistair Hall, was initiated into Corinthian Lodge on 11th November 1996. Though now based in Saudi Arabia where he works in education, Alistair remains a proud Distant Member of the lodge.
The presentation of the 60-year certificate by Provincial Grand Master Kevin Peter Stannard was not just a recognition of longevity, but a celebration of an exemplary Masonic life. WBro Stewart Hall stands as a shining example of service, fraternity, and unwavering dedication—a true cornerstone of Corinthian Lodge and Freemasonry in Northumberland.
Here’s to a remarkable past and an inspiring future. Congratulations, WBro Hall.