Foundations and Early Origins (1894–1895)
The origins of North Kent Lodge No. 2499 date to 1894, when discussions first began among several prominent Freemasons about forming a new lodge in the rapidly developing district of Bexleyheath. The initial drive was led by W. Bro. G. Ratcliff Steel, newly nominated as a Grand Steward, together with W. Bro. Newton Dunn of Eltham and Mr. Robert Hargreaves Rogers of Marl House, Bexley. They approached W. Bro. Thomas Jenkins of Bexleyheath, who fully supported the idea.
Despite enthusiasm, a key challenge emerged: the lack of a suitable building. After multiple enquiries, the group identified the Public Hall at Bexleyheath, which initially did not meet Masonic requirements. Following successful negotiations, structural alterations were agreed to accommodate lodge meetings.
The first recorded meeting of the Founders took place on 23 November 1894 at the home of W. Bro. Thomas Jenkins in Station Road, Bexleyheath. Present were Bros Steel, Dunn, Jenkins, Dale Fry, and Chapman. Over several meetings that December, the Founders reviewed lodge furniture, premises agreements, banquet arrangements, and the design of the Founders’ Jewel and Lodge Badge. The consecration date was confirmed for 2 February 1895, the first Saturday of the month.
Consecration and Early Activity (1895)
The lodge was consecrated on 2 February 1895, a day noted for its bitter cold and heavy snowfall. Despite widespread disruption, the pathways to the lodge were mysteriously cleared — possibly influenced by Founder Bro. E. Reeve Boulter, the local Council Surveyor.
At the consecration meeting, three candidates — Edmond Homes, David Joshua Pitt, and John Butler — were proposed for initiation. Two other brethren, Dr. H. Shelmerdine and G. E. Todd, were proposed as joining members. This marked the beginning of active membership growth.
Growth and Influence in the 20th Century
By the early 20th century, North Kent Lodge had become well‑established. By 1920, it had grown significantly and was described as a “large and popular Lodge with a long waiting list of candidates.”
The lodge’s success even led to the founding of another related lodge. A special meeting of North Kent Lodge in November 1920 agreed that a new lodge should be petitioned for, due to the congestion of candidates and slow progression to office. This initiative contributed to the formation of Gavelkind Lodge, consecrated in 1921.
Throughout the 20th century, the lodge remained deeply connected to the civic and social life of the region, supporting charitable initiatives and maintaining strong membership.
Meetings, Location, and Modern Era
Today, North Kent Lodge No. 2499 meets at:
The Masonic Hall
292 London Road
Greenhithe, Kent DA9 9DA
Meeting schedule (current tradition):
- 1st Saturday in February
- 1st Saturday in March (Uniform Meeting)
- 1st Saturday in May (Installation Meeting)
- 1st Saturday in October
- 1st Saturday in December
The lodge is an active member of the Kindred Lodges Association (KLA) and continues to be part of the Masonic Province of West Kent, maintaining strong fraternal and community ties.
Additionally, the lodge upholds regular Lodge of Instruction sessions every Wednesday in Sidcup to mentor newer brethren and rehearse ritual.
125th Anniversary and Recent Activity
The lodge celebrated its 125th Anniversary on 8 February 2020, marking over a century of continuous Masonic work, charity, and fellowship within West Kent.
The lodge continues to grow and evolve, maintaining a strong charitable presence in the county and supporting local causes consistent with West Kent Freemasonry’s ethos of community service.