Welcome to the Home Page of the Ancient and Accepted Rite for the District of Durham which I hope will of interest to both members of the Order in the District; Freemasons who are interested in joining and those who simply want to learn a little more about it.

The Order has been in existence for over two hundred years and is practised extensively throughout the world. It is governed in England by The Supreme Council 33º for England and Wales and its Districts and Chapters Overseas. This Council was formed in 1845 and has its headquarters at 10, Duke Street, St. James' London. An Inspector General is appointed by Supreme Council to lead each District and he can appoint a District Recorder to assist in the administration work involved.

The first Chapter in Durham was consecrated in 1883 but it was not until 1932 that the District of Durham was created with its own Inspector General. I am the seventh Inspector General for the District which has 22 Chapters and covers the old County boundaries of Durham with meeting places from Gateshead and Hebburn to Darlington and Stockton on Tees. Chapters meet three or four times a year usually commencing at 7.00 pm and concluding, after a traditional festive board, by about 10.00 pm. Fees are maintained at a modest level commensurate with the limited costs of administration. Chapters are not generally large in number, the emphasis being on members who will maintain the quality, friendliness and warmth of the Order.

The District meets together with ladies and friends, at an annual Church Service in September and at a Social evening in October. All members are invited to attend the District Meeting and luncheon in March which is held in Gateshead and the annual colourful demonstrations of two of the Intermediate Degrees of the Order, enacted by the King Edward VII Chapter of Improvement, which are held around the country. Whenever members gain promotion it is a customary practice for fellow members to accompany and support them to London for the Supreme Council Convocation and festive banquet.

If you are stimulated to desire an advancement in Masonic knowledge and friendship, the Order of the 'Rose Croix' will not only offer those rewards, but will extend your commitment to the principles of Freemasonry whilst giving the inner satisfaction of progress in the Christian virtues of Faith, of Hope and of Charity.

V.Ill Bro Ken Park 33º

Inspector General – District of Durham