Earlier this year (Issue 42) we printed an article showing these 2 photographs, taken at Elliott House Nursing Home by WBro Les Shugrue PAGDC, asking if anyone knew anything about the items pictured.

An investigation into their background has been completed by WBro D Sutton of The Lodge of St Mark No.6969. The story is that John Passmore Edwards, a Freemason and notable philanthropist, gave money for two homes to be built in Beltinge, one being for the Friendly Societies, the other for the Railway. John Passmore Edwards appears to be the father of Harry Passmore Edwards SGD (a Consecrating Officer at the Consecration of the Earl of Amherst Lodge No.3230), both of whom were Freemasons, and this makes the Masonic connection with the 3rd Earl Amherst who laid the foundation stone. Further details of the 3rd Earl Amherst, John Passmore Edwards, the two homes and the Earl Amherst Lodge together with their connections can be viewed on the internet at: www.elliotthouse.2ds.co.uk

WBro D Sutton.
Lodge of St Mark No.6969

From Ed44, P16