"An Operative Mason and a Morse of Lewises"

Bro Francis pictured in centre with WM Alan Chitty on the left and W. Bro Mark Bailey

Some might say it’s risky to do anything on Friday the thirteenth. Not so for the Duke of Kent Lodge No 5818, who had a very memorable meeting on Friday 13th February 2026 – for all the right reasons.

It seemed at first glance a simple and straightforward Second Degree Ceremony for Brother Francis Sullivan. And so it was – well executed and enjoyed by all. But what else was going on?

Here is the first unusual thing: Francis is a practising stonemason! He was recently recruited into the Lodge following a chance meeting between Francis and Lodge Master Alan Chitty whilst at Nettlestead Church cemetery as Francis tended to a headstone. You know how it is: you get chatting and one thing leads to another.

Francis also lives in Stone near Dartford: yes really!

Duke Of Kents (Very Own) Four Father-and-Son pairs (Lewises)

A Special Family Connection

One particularly special feature of the evening was the remarkable number of father-and-son pairs in attendance. The Lodge is proud to have four such pairs, known in Freemasonry as Lewises, as pictured:

  • Graham Moore and his son Jim, who serves as Inner Guard.

  • Steve Downing and his son Ben, Steward and Banqueting Steward respectively.

  • Alan Allchone and his son Lee.

  • Alan Chitty, Lodge Master, and his son Lloyd, Senior Warden.

And the family connections did not end there! Three further father-and-son pairs joined us for the meeting, bringing the total to an impressive seven:

  • Les Tasker and his son Seymour Tasker, both members of Robinson Lodge No. 2046.

  • Mark Bailey and his son John, both members of New Silver Jubilee Lodge No. 8823, Essex.

  • Mark Best, the Lodge’s recent joining member, and his father David, of Bishopway Lodge No. 6061.

Quite what the collective noun for a gathering of Lewises might be remains open to debate. Perhaps a “Morse”? A thought that might have Inspector Morse himself — played by the late John Thaw — turning in his grave!

Beyond the numbers, this remarkable gathering was a wonderful illustration of the family bonds, shared traditions and enduring friendships that make Freemasonry so special. It was a fitting reflection of the spirit of fellowship that runs through Duke of Kent Lodge No. 5818.

Fellowship Continues at the Festive Board

Following the formal proceedings, members and guests continued the celebrations at the Festive Board, which proved to be a highlight in its own right. Fine food and wine accompanied the traditional toasts, with thoughtful speeches and plenty of laughter creating a warm and convivial atmosphere. It was a fitting end to a memorable evening celebrating achievement, tradition and Masonic companionship.

Compiled by Bro. Lloyd Chitty
Edited by W. Bro. Stuart Skilkin
Final edit by W. Bro. John Ray

"Ben Downing’s Memorable Initiation"

In June, Ben Downing began his journey into Freemasonry through the Just Ask One portal. Already familiar with the fraternity—his father had once been a London Lodge member—Ben attended a Lodge Open Day at the Wilmington Masonic Centre in West Kent.

Referred to Group 5 Membership Advisor Alan Chitty, Ben joined Duke of Kent Lodge 5818 in Maidstone. With some behind-the-scenes effort, his father Stephen attended and actively participated in the initiation, presenting Ben with the badge of a Mason and explaining the First Degree tools—a delightful surprise for all present.

Over 50 Masons attended, and in a lighthearted moment, the organist played I’m Forever Blowing Bubbles in tribute to Ben and his father’s shared love of West Ham. Ben is now officially a member of the Province of East Kent, highlighting the dedication of the Membership Team and the welcoming spirit of Freemasonry.