British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners

Reach

The British Order was particularly strong in Northern England and North East Scotland, establishing lodges in locations like Elgin and Oldmeldrum.

Structure

While it used the same three-degree system (Apprentice/Adam, Journeyman/Noah, and Master/Solomon) as other Free Gardeners, it maintained its own independent administration.

Modern Revival

As of 2024, the Free Gardeners movement is experiencing a global resurgence. While the specific "British Order" designation is often subsumed under broader modern bodies, active lodges are operating in London, Scotland, and Wales under the Independent Ancient Order of Free Gardeners

LAPEL PIN

british order of ancient free gardeners

JEWELS

british order of ancient free gardeners

SASH

british order of ancient free gardeners

CHARTER

british order of ancient free gardeners

History

"Rose and Thistle was the first lodge of the British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners to be established in Aberdeen. This was in April of 1880 and was initially under the care of the Kirkaldy District Branch. By 1887 six lodges existed, and in September of that year, it was decided to form an Aberdeen District Branch.

The British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners, like similar societies, was a friendly society which aimed to help members in times of sickness and need. The Free Gardeners adopted rituals and symbols which owed much to those of Freemasons. The influence of the Order spread throughout the Northeast of Scotland, with lodges being set up in places such as Boddam, Elgin, Ballater and Oldmeldrum. In the 20th century the gradual introduction of state pensions and benefits began to undermine the economic basis of the British Order of Ancient Free Gardeners, and there was a long period of decline in membership. In 1987, in the Aberdeen Branch's centenary year, the order was dissolved."

Once membership was paid, there followed a modest weekly contribution, determined by age, which typically offered as benefits the payment of a weekly sum whilst ill or incapacitated, the costs of medical assistance and medicines being met, plus a funeral allowance covering the member, their spouse and children.

The Order of Free Gardeners was only one of a number of fraternal societies which came into being, but certainly, Kirkcaldy District quickly became a numeric and financial stronghold. The district was geographically diverse, covering areas including Alloa, Perth, Cowdenbeath and Burntisland. The individual lodges held their own meetings but also elected delegates to attend district and national conferences. Kirkcaldy produced several high-profile figures, many of whom made significant contributions to the Order at every level, some over many decades.