THE CHAPTER HOUSE, Liverpool Cathedral
 
Unfortunately, we were not able to have our Tercentenary Service at the Cathedral in Liverpool. However, because of my wife's training, I find myself spending more time there.
 
I had been well aware of the Chapter House, but walking around recently, I saw it ' afresh '.
 
This part of the Cathedral was financed by the Province of West Lancashire in 1906. Recently it has been refurbished with a further grant from our Province.
 
Outside the door to the Chapter House is an illuminated display case, exhibiting our involvement.
Stone laying, 'Masonic Symbols'
The Stained Glass Windows showning Solomon and Hiram.
This Window shows Abraham and a supplicant. But the face on Abraham is that of the Earl of Lathom, our Craft & Mark PGM. He later became GM of The Mark Degree. along with Provincial Prior in the Knights Templar of Lancashire.
The Chapter House
Zerubbabel & Joshua are depicted above
Finally in the case, a display of Mason's Marks
Note the Mark at the end of the bottom row ----- (Bro. Andy Baker, a member of Southport Mark Lodge).
 
There is a remarkable portrait of the Earl of Lathom in Gt Queen St. This is at the top of the GO staircase, same beard, but robed in what appears to be a colourful blanket (Joseph's coat of many colours?!?). If you come in via the main entrance and are approaching the Grand Temple doors, you can find it by turning left towards the toilets, just before which, you turn right (towards the lounge). His is first or second portrait on the left, adjacent to the lounge doors.
 
There is also a portrait of him at MMH. (86 St James's). This is in the 'L' shaped part of the main dining room (top of stairs, first floor)
 
The Earl of Lathom (previously Lord Skelmersdale) was WM of Lebanon Mark Lodge from1876 to 1883, with a Deputy Master in place. His son (subs 2nd Earl of Lathom) was WM of Clarence Mark Lodge in 1893.
 
For those interested in Stained Glass I do recommend looking at the first window in St Anne's Church, St Anne's Square, Central Manchester. It is a magnificent window of King Solomon, donated by the Province of East Lancs. (I came across it by accident, whilst my wife was shopping!).
 
Words and pictures by Peter Connolly.